The Challenges Facing Young Men
Schools are struggling with disengaged young men who are battling with identity and purpose, and increasingly influenced by online cultures that can promote harmful ideas about masculinity and women.
Since the pandemic, the number of males aged 16–24 not in education, employment or training has risen by around 40% to 946,000–957,000 total in 2025, with 55,000 added each year (ONS, 2025).
63% of young men watch pornography with violence against women and about 73 % of Gen Z social media users in the UK regularly see misogynistic content online.
Boys are more than twice as likely as girls to be permanently excluded from school (UK Department for Education)
Boys are around three times more likely to die by suicide (Office for National Statistics).
BBC News: “Boys are refusing to speak to female teachers
because they follow online influencers like Andrew Tate”
At Eden we believe that “young men don’t need to be fixed; their potential needs to be unlocked.”
The Power of Mentoring
Eden mentors across Norfolk see the impact of intentional mentoring in schools:
Re-engagement: Boys at risk of espolshion and suspension are getting back on track.
Academic & school engagement: Boys participating more in lessons and school life.
Mental health & purpose: Boys are growing in confidence, resilience, and direction.
Healthy digital choices: Mentoring opens conversations about online content.
Restored relationships: Parental and family relationships are improving, with boys experiencing more support and connection at home
Character development: Boys are considering values, integrity, and the kind of men they want to become.
Vision & higher purpose: Young men are discovering hope, ambition, and a sense of responsibility in society.
THE RESEARCH
The Centre for Social Justice Lost Boys report exposes a stark reality a generation of boys in the UK is being left behind across school, work, and mental health
TESTIMONIALS
“My child said it was the best conversation and support he’s ever had in school. He came home in a really positive mood and felt listened to without being made to feel like a problem.” Parent feedback
"I've been able to wake up in the mornings with a different perspective on school and I’m thinking positively about life now." Eden Mentee
