Why

Today’s adolescent boys in Norfolk are growing up in a landscape shaped by digital influence, social pressure, and increasing isolation, with serious consequences for their wellbeing, attitudes, and futures. Many boys aged 11–14 are exposed to online content that normalises misogyny, distorted views of masculinity, and unhealthy relationships. Excessive screen use, cyberbullying, and risky digital behaviours are closely linked to anxiety, disengagement from school, and poor mental health. One in five young people live with a probable mental health condition, and suicide remains the leading cause of death among boys and young men.

In Norfolk, these challenges are amplified by rural and coastal isolation, limited youth provision, and higher than average social, emotional, and mental health needs in schools, leaving many boys feeling unseen and unsupported. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted social development, reducing confidence in communication and emotional expression impacts schools continue to feel today. Teachers and school leaders regularly report being overwhelmed by safeguarding pressures and increasingly complex needs, leaving boys vulnerable to exploitation, harmful peer cultures, and disengagement.

What

Eden Mentoring exists to intervene. We partner with schools to offer one-to-one mentoring that restores hope, builds values, and helps students rediscover purpose. Through authentic conversations and intentional guidance, our mentors support boys in developing character, empathy, resilience, and confidence.

We believe every young man has untapped potential. By fostering consistent, personalised mentoring relationships, Eden helps boys re-engage with education, rebuild relationships, and gain the emotional intelligence and confidence needed to navigate life’s challenges. We want to ensure no young man is left to face these pressures alone, empowering them to grow into confident, purposeful, and contributing members of their communities.

How

Every young person is different some need just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support. We don’t follow a rigid program, instead we have a range of engaging tools and approaches to meet each child’s needs. Our approach is informed by the work of Dr Tyler J. VanderWeele, Harvard professor and Director of the Human Flourishing Program, whose research on character, purpose, relationships, and wellbeing is globally recognised. Using this framework, we help young people explore his researches 4 keys to a happy and fulfilling life, Faith, Self, Relationships, and Work, providing guidance and role models that enable them to thrive in school, at home, and beyond.