Mary's Annual Report 2022 - Flipbook - Page 2
As Patron of Mary’s, an organisation working with
disadvantaged young people in North London, many of
them involved in violent gangs, I have come to know Jason
and his team as quite exceptional and exceedingly brave.
Their direct intervention, dogged determination to stay
in touch with people being ignored by much the rest of
society, and tireless work with them have, I am absolutely
sure, saved many lives.
London, like much of the rest of Britain, is suffering from
an epidemic of violent gang-based crime as disenchanted
youths battle for territory and drugs business. Many are
excluded early from school and find themselves with
nowhere to go save the streets. Many are entirely terrified
by what that means and understand that the likelihood of
being seriously injured is high. A majority are desperate to
get out but have no means of doing so.
Mary’s works with them, offering safe places, sports and
other activities, and patient conversation about their
problems. Jason’s team is always available to be called and
frequently put themselves in harm’s way.
They are the nearest thing that this part of London has to
genuine local heroes.
Andrew Marr, Patron