Charity Partners Announced for MHBS’s Youth Programme

Market Harborough Building Society has officially launched its Thrive! Forward programme – a major new initiative designed to support young people across South Leicestershire and North Northamptonshire.

Backed by a £250,000 donation to the Society’s community fund, the programme will focus on three key areas: mental health, financial literacy, and employability.

The launch comes in response to national figures showing growing challenges for young people: more than 40% report feelings of sadness or hopelessness, over half of high school students lack basic financial knowledge, and around 850,000 people aged 16–24 are currently not in education, employment, or training.

To help address these issues, MHBS has partnered with:

Wize Up Financial Education – delivering interactive school sessions to build budgeting skills and financial confidence.

Local Mind charities in Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland, and Kettering – running hybrid workshops to help students manage stress and strengthen resilience.

Young Enterprise – providing immersive, practical sessions on CV writing, interview techniques, and understanding salaries and taxes.

MHBS’s Iain Kirkpatrick in front of the branch in Market Harborough

The programme also welcomes Kheron Gilpin as Community Ambassador. Known for his work in youth empowerment, who said:“Supporting young people in their journey to success is something I’m deeply passionate about. MHBS’s commitment to empowering youth aligns perfectly with my values, and together, we can make a real difference.”

MHBS Chief Executive Iain Kirkpatrick added: “We believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive. By investing in their mental wellbeing, financial literacy, and career readiness – and working alongside our partners – we’re turning that belief into action.”

In its first phase, Thrive! Forward will focus support in MHBS’s local communities, working directly with schools and community centres.

The programme aims to create long-term, measurable change, shaped by the real needs of young people.

MHBS is inviting schools, youth groups, and community organisations to get involved.

To find out more or express interest, contact thrive@mhbs.co.uk.