A Sussex-based charity is continuing its mission to support young men aged 18 to 25 through intensive mentoring, aiming to help them navigate the transition to adulthood and reduce involvement in the criminal justice system.
The organisation, ABandOfBrothers (ABOB), operates several communities across the region, including Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, and a West Sussex branch in Crawley. The charity provides a structured programme designed for young men facing adversity, offering them the chance to develop new skills and find a sense of purpose within their local community.
The Quest and mentoring cycle
The core of the charity’s work is a dual-phase programme. It begins with the ‘Quest for Community’ rite of passage, a residential weekend designed to foster self-reflection and personal responsibility. Following this, participants enter a 10-week mentoring curriculum, where they are paired with older men from the community who act as mentors.
Weekly community circles also form a key part of the support network, providing a consistent space for participants to discuss challenges and progress. The service is provided free of charge to young men within the target age bracket who are either involved in the criminal justice system or are considered at risk.
Regional impact and reoffending rates
ABandOfBrothers, which is registered with the Charity Commission, has reported significant success in its efforts to divert young men from crime. According to the organisation, there is a reported 75% reduction in reoffending among those who complete the full programme.
Beyond the social impact, the charity highlights the economic benefits of its work. It claims that each avoided incarceration saves the state approximately £40,000 per year. This regional work is supported in part by the Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner’s Safer in Sussex Community Fund, which provides grants to projects aimed at reducing crime and improving local safety.
More details on the social and economic outcomes of the programme can be found on the official ABandOfBrothers website.
Volunteering and community involvement
The charity relies on a network of adult volunteers to serve as mentors. Older men interested in supporting the next generation are provided with specific training by the charity to prepare them for the mentoring role.
While the Crawley branch serves as a primary hub for West Sussex, the charity’s network across the county allows for a wider reach into regional towns and villages. Young men can be referred to the service through official channels, including the probation service and social care, or they can contact the organisation directly for support.
