Impact Report 2024 - The Clement JamesCentre - Equipping the Community for Success

One thing that was made abundantly clear in 2024 is that carrying out a comprehensive review of activities whilst maintaining business-as-usual operations is a significant challenge. ClementJames prides itself on being a consistent and welcoming space for clients at all times, which requires our management to wear multiple hats. In 2024 we were able to do this successfully, culminating with the production of a new strategic plan whilst achieving high outcomes across our programmes. This is the thing that brings me the most pride when I review last year.

To begin with, we supported approximately 2,500 people across our range of programmes, making a concerted effort to offer trauma-informed spaces where young people, adults and families can develop solutions to their challenges. Partnerships were a big part of this and we continue to have a prosperous relationship with the national charity IntoUniversity, which gives such credibility to our programmes supporting young people and their families.

We have created more spaces for our clients and staff to speak about their experiences at ClementJames, and we have endeavoured to have more nuanced and complex conversations about Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI). At times this has been uncomfortable, but it has led to a greater openness about gaps in our knowledge and blind spots.

Partnerships and a focus on DEI are two of the key pillars of the recently produced strategic plan which will be shared in the Summer of 2025. This plan provides us with purpose and direction for the next 5 years as we aim to help people in our community to realise their potential. I want to thank the Trustees at ClementJames who have helped to create this plan, and in particular Simon Glucina who completed his first year as ClementJames Chair.

I also want to extend gratitude to the staff who continue to work in a challenging environment, and our volunteers who offer such great value to our organisation, whether they are supporting delivery or helping with operations and fundraising. In particular, our Development Board which coordinates fundraising events shows a level of dedication and energy that cannot be matched.

I am in no doubt that 2025 will be another year of great achievements and great challenges, and the many stakeholders that we have will support us as we navigate both.

Dami Solebo

Our vision

Our vision is that everyone in our community gets the opportunity to realise their potential and live fulfilled lives.

Our offer to the community

ClementJames supports young people, adults, and families to achieve their ambitions by providing high-quality services that meet individual needs.

Children & Young People’s Programmes

Helping young people to learn, flourish and achieve their potential.

Adult Learning

Supporting adults to improve their English, Maths and ICT skills.

Information, Advice & Guidance

Helping people to overcome the barriers, challenges and issues affecting their lives.

Wellbeing Support

Supporting people to increase their confidence, resilience and support networks, and that of their family and friends.

Employment Support

Equipping people with the skills to feel more job-ready and to achieve their employment goals.

Children & Young People

Through our programmes children and young people feel fulfilled and have the opportunities to build the future that they choose. We work closely with IntoUniversity: their programme was piloted at ClementJames in 2002 before the charity was set up and expanded nationwide.

A year of taking action

Our one-to-one Literacy and Numeracy catch-up sessions continued to support students working below expected levels, both at the Centre and in partnership with local schools. The students we support often face additional educational challenges. This year, these challenges frequently intersected, including students at risk of exclusion, those with missed schooling or low attendance, and young people with special educational needs or mental health difficulties.

We also provided comprehensive support through our IntoUniversity North Kensington team, which saw 7-18 year olds attend after-school Academic Support, one-to-one mentoring, aspirational careers-based Focus sessions, and a vibrant Carnival Arts Programme.

In 2024, we supported 1,537 children & young people.

Children & Young People: Our Impact

52 children and young people who received intensive 1-2-1 literacy and numeracy support made a year’s progress in just nine weeks.
93% of 1-2-1 students saw improvements in at least one measure related to their wellbeing, including perseverance, support networks, and resilience.
73% of our Year 13 students progressed directly to university, employment, training or apprenticeships.
Of the students who attended Academic Support sessions, 67% said they are ‘more likely to go to university’ and 65% reported improved confidence.

Early Intervention

Our Early Intervention programme was introduced in 2021 to address the specific and recognised concern over high levels of school exclusions in the borough. This disproportionately affects children from Black, African, Caribbean, and Black British backgrounds; those eligible for free school meals; and those who have Special Educational Needs but are without Education; Health and Care Plans.

A year of taking action

Support from our Early Intervention team meant that 42 students and their families were provided with expert advocacy during the school exclusions process. Of those asked, 84% felt that they had increased their knowledge of what to do if faced with exclusion, and 82% felt positive about their future.

Workshops during term time and school holidays saw 51 young people engaging in a range of activities from understanding their boundaries in Female Mentoring, to seeking out future pathways in careers-focused provision. We also provided young people with counselling and play therapy sessions with our Children & Young People’s counsellor.

Yesterday, I felt so relaxed after talking to you, and I think it’s important that we acknowledge that, as parents, we can’t do everything. Your help is so valuable. Even if I don’t get the result I expected, I will be glad that I was able to face this challenge and did my best to represent my son. I’m so thankful for you being with us at this hard time.
Parent receiving Advocacy Support

I depend on my adviser’s support to help me understand any issues my son is going through at school. I have lost my trust in a lot of organisations, but I have received so much support with my son who is now settled in school, receiving therapy, and doing well in his education.
The parent of a student who came to us at high risk of permanent exclusion. At the end of support, the student was attending mainstream school full time and was no longer at risk of exclusion.

Adult Learning

Improving skills in English, maths and ICT means that our students have the confidence and knowledge to help them succeed, and their place in the community is strengthened.

A year of taking action

This year, we delivered a comprehensive programme of support for our Adult Learning community. Our English courses welcomed both beginners and those gaining GCSE-equivalent qualifications, while maths and digital skills courses helped clients to develop the skills needed to operate in the workplace with confidence.

In addition to our wide range of inclusive classes, we launched a Community Book Exchange and hosted informative workshops. These workshops included guidance on using the NHS app and practical sessions to help people become more confident with smartphones.

Collaborating closely with partners, we also took significant steps to tackle digital exclusion in the borough. Fifty clients completed a short course on computer literacy and received a laptop which made a meaningful change in their day-to-day lives.

In 2024, 129 students completed a course on the programme.

Adult Learning: Our Impact

As a foreigner who took a career break and was fully dedicated as a full-time mum, loneliness and lack of confidence became part of my daily life. After joining the English classes and being constantly challenged and encouraged by our lovely teacher, I gladly realised my potential was still there.
Vanessa, Adult Learning Student

Of our learners on Adult Learning courses:

100% of maths students achieved their qualification
88% of English students achieved their qualification
85% of ICT students achieved their qualification

Employment Support

We support our clients to gain meaningful employment, training and volunteering opportunities. This means that they can improve their quality of life, security, confidence and independence.

A year of taking action

We offered tailored one-to-one and group support to clients looking to take the next step in their employment journey. Our programme is adapted to support clients through every stage of the process, from those who are job-ready but lacking confidence, to long-term unemployed clients facing significant barriers to re-entering the workforce. Our advisers provide a compassionate environment where clients can share their experiences and feel heard, devising practical plans to support every client to achieve their employment goals.

We also offered a range of employment workshops across the year which saw clients gain new skills. These included Interview Skills Days, Public Speaking workshops, and a Recruiter Insights Day with our employment partner Suez.

169 clients received 1-2-1 Employment Support
79% reported an increase in their knowledge of employment search tools
67% reported an increase in their knowledge of the steps to take to reach their employment goals

Our one-day workshops are central to our Employment Support offer. Clients can practice and prepare for future interviews and build confidence in their ability to communicate and speak publicly.

It gave me the opportunity to put myself on the spot and face my fears of talking in English in front of a big audience. My mentors made me feel really at ease and gave me the courage I needed.
Client attending a Public Speaking workshop

Wellbeing Support

Our clients learn about various ‘tools’ that they can use to protect and promote their wellbeing, together with their physical and mental health.

A year of taking action

We provided regular, enriching activities including gardening, ear acupuncture, and weekly groups such as Wellbeing Group and Creative Wellbeing Group. Our annual events also provided spaces for the community to come together at a Winter Celebration Day and a Women’s Self-Care Day.

Our Wellbeing programme connects clients, many of whom feel isolated and lack support networks, with all elements of their wellbeing. Peer support is a key element of the sessions we provide, creating a space where clients can connect with other local people through shared experiences and finding common ground. Clients come away from sessions having learnt from each other and feeling equipped with the knowledge, motivation, and confidence to sustainably support themselves going forward.

283 adults attended a range of health and wellbeing groups and events
Clients who attend wellbeing provision report improvements in at least three key areas: confidence, resilience and support networks.

Wellbeing Support: Our Impact

39 women took part in the Women’s Confidence Programme. This course gives local women the opportunity to take time for themselves and their goals. One participant said: “These sessions have helped me connect with other women, learn more about my local community, and develop self-awareness and confidence.”
140 adults benefitted from the Wellbeing Clinic. Clients report that the clinic allows them to de-stress, cope better with challenges, and to reconnect with themselves. One participant said: “I enjoy the peace, care, and safe space that the practitioner creates. It carves out a special place in my week just for me and is making such a difference to my life.”

Information, Advice & Guidance

Our clients overcome the practical barriers, challenges and issues affecting their lives. This removes stress and uncertainty so that they can feel in control and pursue their goals.

A year of taking action

Our Advice team assisted clients with a range of issues often compounded by challenges such as having a first language that is not English or mental health difficulties. These challenges can make already complex issues even more overwhelming for our clients, requiring one-to-one support and a compassionate approach.

Our team has worked diligently to ensure that each individual receives not only guidance which addresses their immediate concerns, but also the tools and knowledge to support them to navigate future challenges independently where possible.

We also offered specialist sessions with partners Nucleus and Shelter, and ran several workshops throughout the year supporting with issues at the forefront of the community, including benefit migration and energy efficiency.

269 local people received information, advice and guidance
208 issues were resolved for our clients by the team
71 referrals were made to specialist providers

Information, Advice & Guidance: Our Impact by Appointment Topics

9% Grants: Clients came to us for advice when their incomes did not stretch to household items including white goods, furniture and children’s clothing. We worked with them to secure vital grants for these essential items.
42% Benefits: These can be complicated and emotionally difficult for clients to apply for independently, so we provided information and guidance for applications, challenges, and reviews to secure life-changing benefits, helping the community to combat the rising cost of living.
5% Debt & Money: Heavily impacted by the cost of living and the administration of the benefits system, clients came to us with issues covering three main areas: energy bill debt, rent arrears, and loan and credit card debt.
20% Housing: We supported clients with housing queries and referred complex cases to our specialist partner, Shelter, who also provided additional appointments onsite.
24% Other: Includes emigration, education & health issues.

Nucleus & ClementJames: A Partnership Transforming Lives

For over 50 years, Nucleus has provided free, confidential legal advice on debt, housing, welfare benefits, and employment law.

To meet growing demand, Nucleus launched its “Advice in the Community” initiative, establishing outreach locations in North Kensington. ClementJames, deeply embedded in the area, became a key partner, allowing Nucleus to offer immediate, face-to-face casework support to individuals unable to travel to its primary base in the south of the borough.This initiative has removed barriers for clients facing financial constraints, mobility issues, or distrust of formal institutions. Now, they have a trusted, welcoming venue to seek help close to home. Meet Baljit Badesha, the CEO.

“The partnership with ClementJames has created a collaborative and inclusive space. Clients value the centre’s accommodations for individuals with disabilities, its calming garden, and the warmth of its staff.

Many clients face interconnected issues—severe poverty, mental health struggles, and isolation. By working closely with ClementJames, Nucleus has been able to reach individuals who might otherwise be reluctant to seek help. ClementJames’ deep community trust has played a vital role in overcoming these challenges. Together, we have supported hundreds of residents, providing them with tailored advice to help navigate crises and regain stability. Beyond legal aid, this collaboration restores dignity, builds confidence, and empowers individuals to take control of their circumstances.

The Nucleus-ClementJames partnership exemplifies the power of community-driven solutions. By combining resources and expertise, the two organizations deliver holistic support to those who need it most. As we reflect on the past three years, I want to thank the ClementJames team for their collaboration. The hundreds of people we’ve helped together would undoubtedly echo that gratitude. This partnership is proof that working together can create real change, and we look forward to continuing to serve the community.”

Tom’s Story

Tom was introduced to The ClementJames Centre by a friend. He was suffering from long-term health difficulties after receiving the Covid vaccine, which had left him unable to work and caused a decline in his mental health. Below he speaks openly about this very challenging time in his life.

“Right up until I was introduced to The ClementJames Centre, I was frankly suicidal. I was utterly depressed and extremely angry with several organisations. Things couldn’t have been worse. I really couldn’t have been any lower than where I was, but I very quickly realised that there were some wonderful organisations out there, of which ClementJames is the best I’ve ever experienced. My friend, who had previously accessed services at ClementJames, suggested I came to get some support with my benefits applications. I have since been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a symptom of which is brain fog, which explains why I just couldn’t fathom the massive, bureaucratic forms that needed to be filled in.

My adviser has since worked with me to apply for Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit, the latter of which helped me to secure the additional Limited Capacity for Work-Related Activity payment. He has been a fountain of knowledge on the whole process and helped me to understand what we needed to get across in the forms. I thought it would be easier but it was much more difficult than I expected. I felt like my adviser was holding my hand and taking me through the process. ClementJames can’t improve on that, you can’t get better than you already are. This is a really well-run organisation.

I also started attending the Wellbeing Clinic for acupuncture sessions. The practitioner is fantastic. Everyone who gets employed here is the right person. I’m extremely grateful because the acupuncture, while it’s not going to fix me, it takes the edge off of my symptoms.

Thank goodness ClementJames is here to do its best, and it’s done more than its best for me. It’s really helped me to think it’s worth fighting another week, another month, another year. I’m slowly adjusting and hopefully I won’t ever get back to the negativity of where I was before. I can’t put into words how much I appreciate the Centre.”

We couldn’t do it without you

We would not be able to make this impact without the support and generosity of our donors, partners, local authority, and the trusts and foundations that we work with.

All Aboard Shops; Arts Council England; Audley Travel; Campden Charities; City Bridge Foundation; Childhood Trust; Co-op Local Community Fund; Corcoran Foundation; Ernst & Young; Groundwork; Henry Oldfield Trust; Henry Smith Foundation; Hollick Family Foundation; IntoUniversity; Johnson and Johnson; Kensington and Chelsea Social Council – Community Living Well; The Kensington and Chelsea Foundation; Mercers’ Company; Michael Page; National Lottery Community Fund; Newby Trust; Souter Charitable Trust; SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK; TAM Asset Management; The Belpech Trust; The Drapers’ Charitable Fund; The Gosling Foundation; The Grace Trust; The Grenfell Foundation (Fight 4 Grenfell); The Headley Trust; The Helen Hamlyn Trust; The Hiscox Foundation; The Julia Rausing Trust; The Leigh Trust; The Lightbulb Trust; The Linbury Trust; North Kensington Community Energy; The Ogden Trust; The Peter Stormonth Darling Charitable Trust; The Progress Foundation; The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea; Thomas Schools Foundation; Toast Brewing; The Trussell Trust; The Sobell Foundation; West London Zone; William Allen Young Trust; The Worshipful Company of International Bankers; The Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators; W O Street Charitable Foundation; Wyseliot Rose Charitable Trust; 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust; Individual Donors.

*Donations & Legacies 1st September 2023 – 31st August 2024

To find out more, please contact: The ClementJames Centre, 95 Sirdar Road, London, W11 4EQ / 020 7221 8810 / reception@clementjames.org / www.clementjames.org

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