ABOUT US

Empowering the Next Generation

Empowering the Next Generation - J4C

At J4C , we are committed to addressing and reducing the root causes of knife crime, gun crime, and gang-related violence in our communities. Our work is grounded in the belief that every young person, no matter their background or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive, feel safe, and reach their full potential. We specialise in delivering solution-focused, frontline support services for marginalised and vulnerable young people, helping them navigate challenging environments and break cycles of negative behaviour. From early intervention to intensive support, we are here to make a difference where it matters most on the ground, in homes, in schools, and in communities.

our mission

To empower vulnerable and marginalised young people by tackling the root causes of knife crime, gun crime, gang involvement, and social exclusion. We deliver practical, targeted support that strengthens families, schools, and communities, enabling young people to make positive life choices, develop healthy relationships, and break the cycle of violence and disadvantage.

our vision

A safer, more united community where all young people, regardless of background, have the opportunity to thrive. We envision a future where schools, families, and agencies work together to build resilience, reduce exclusions, and prevent youth violence through early intervention, advocacy, and community-led solutions.

What we do

Supporting young people and community
Empower through Education & Mentorship

Develop mentoring programs and workshops that educate young people on the risks of violence and exploitation, while also building their confidence, emotional intelligence, and decision-making skills. Partner with local leaders and relatable role models to guide them.

Collaborate with Schools for Inclusive Support

Work closely with schools to create early intervention strategies that identify and support students at risk of exclusion. Provide training for staff on trauma-informed practices and offer alternative pathways to manage challenging behaviour constructively.

Create Youth Leadership Platforms

Establish youth councils, forums, and community projects that allow young people to voice their ideas and lead initiatives. Give them real responsibility in shaping solutions, promoting peer-led change, and influencing policy in their schools and communities.

Supporting students in education and schools
Promote Holistic Student Support

Implement programs that address both academic and wellbeing needs, including tutoring, counseling, mental health services, nutrition support, and family engagement initiatives, ensuring students are equipped with the tools to succeed, thrive, and grow both inside and outside the classroom.

Foster Inclusive and Positive Learning Environments

Support schools in creating safe, engaging spaces through restorative practices, culturally responsive teaching, and positive behaviour support strategies that reduce barriers to learning.

Support Positive Teacher-Student Relationships

Provide training and resources that help educators build trust, empathy, and mutual respect with students, laying the foundation for stronger relationships, better engagement, improved behaviour, and long-term academic, emotional, and social success in education.

Community safety and development
Support Young People and Parents Impacted by Youth Violence

Provide trauma-informed support services, consistent mentoring, and safe, welcoming spaces for young people and their families. Facilitate inclusive, community-led healing programs that rebuild trust, strengthen resilience, foster hope, and break cycles of violence, fear, and disconnection.

Stand with Women and Girls Facing Sexual Exploitation – Pathway to Hope

Deliver survivor-centered programs that offer protection, advocacy, and long-term support. Collaborate with local services to raise awareness, provide education, and create pathways to independence and empowerment.

Build Safer, Stronger Communities Together

Partner with residents, schools, faith groups, local radio stations, and local agencies to design impactful, community-led safety initiatives, improve neighbourhood cohesion, and create opportunities for positive youth engagement, and leadership development.

Our Story

J4C Empowering The Next Generation is a well-established community organisation, incorporated as a Community Interest Company (CIC), with a strong and proven track record in our respective fields. While officially registered as a new Community Interest Company, our work is rooted in over a decade of hands-on experience through our former organisation, Safe N Sound Youth Project.

Our principal objectives are to support community partners in understanding their capacity to drive positive change; to help local people gain insight into their own unique situations; to raise awareness of the power of collective community action; to empower individuals to build confidence in their ability to create meaningful, lasting change in their local areas; and to work alongside educational establishments to provide targeted support that promotes inclusion, reduces exclusions, and enhances opportunities for young people to thrive.

Our senior leadership team brings over 25 years of combined experience at a strategic level, delivering impactful, solution-focused support to vulnerable and marginalised young people both locally and nationally. Our management team is comprised of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in the youth justice, safeguarding, education, life experience and community development sectors. This expertise is embedded throughout our project delivery model, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful response to the complex issues affecting young people today.

Meet The Founder

Jennifer Blake

CO-FOUNDER

Jennifer Blake founded J4C Empowering the Next Generation in response to the continuing rise and challenges facing young people, including social exclusion, criminal exploitation, the link between exclusions and gangs, Physical assault against teachers and youth violence. Drawing from her personal journey as a former gang leader, Jennifer brings a powerful, lived understanding of the systemic issues affecting young people today. Her ability to connect, motivate, and guide individuals has made her a respected leader in community engagement and youth intervention.

With over 15 years of experience in voluntary and community work locally and nationally, Jennifer previously founded the award-winning Safe'N'Sound Youth Project, transforming the lives of countless individuals, families, and communities. Her expertise spans conflict mediation, youth justice, safeguarding, and community development.

Jennifer is a qualified criminologist, accredited high-risk mediator, and former Vice Chair of the Metropolitan Police Trident Independent Advisory Group. She currently serves as a critical incident advisor to Southwark Police and is a key member of several advisory and mediation boards focused on youth violence prevention.

Her extensive qualifications include:

  • BA (Hons) in Criminology & Youth Justice
  • NAPL Qualified Paralegal
  • NVQ Level 3 High-Risk Mediator
  • LSCP Level 4 Designated Safeguard Lead
  • Peer-led Gang and Youth Violence Accreditation
  • Probation Officer Training Qualification

Her outstanding contributions have been recognised with numerous awards, including:

  • Ambassador for Peace Award
  • Community Hero & Champion Awards
  • Peace Award for Outstanding Service in Southwark
  • McWhirter Foundation Award (presented by Rt Hon. Boris Johnson)
  • Home Office Certificate for Tackling Youth Violence (presented by Prime Minister Theresa May)
  • Multiple commendations from the Metropolitan Police and Home Office

Jennifer's leadership, vision, and lived experience continue to shape J4C’s innovative approach to empowering young people, building safer communities, and driving systemic change.