1. AI is powerful…
In fact, it’s now almost inescapable in both personal and professional life. Expectations are high, and many organisations we’re working with are looking at emerging AI solutions. Not all though: pockets of scepticism remain, as do highly variable levels of engagement.
2. …but it comes with risks
How can we reap the benefits and efficiencies of AI without compromising our green values or inflating our carbon footprint? How can we put fairness at the heart of our approach when the rise of AI could impact jobs, livelihoods, and pipelines? How can we ensure AI supports and develops our community-focused, people-powered approach and doesn’t detract from it? These have been key questions for The Young Foundation this year.
3. Youth voices and views are as inspiring as ever
Teenagers and young people have continued to be inspirational across many of our projects and programmes this year, showing how deeply they care about the world around them and bringing amazing energy. The government increasingly recognises the power of youth voice too (for example, by reducing voting age to 16).
4. Participation is shifting…
2025 has seen direct action and protest. This can lead to unrest and violence. At the other end of the scale, it can see people taking space where they previously felt unrepresented and unwelcome – stepping in to speak up, not waiting to be invited.
5. …and so is our political landscape
The two-party status quo is being disrupted, with the rise of parties that have previously been considered fringe. This matters, because when political landscapes shift, so do the opportunities and challenges faced by communities.
6. The language of ‘net zero’ can be polarising
While our national ‘net zero’ targets are bound by law, the term is both losing and gaining support, at opposite poles of opinion, in media, politics, and households. Our work is about more than words; it’s about people, places, planet, prospects, and every community’s right to participate in – and thrive through – the green transition.
7. ‘Green’ policies and practices have shifted around people’s experiences and concerns
Retrofit is a good example. Around 20% of UK carbon emissions come from homes, so updates and upgrades to make them more energy-efficient and comfortable are crucial. That cannot happen without trust, and we’ve seen retrofit policy adapting in recognition of community and resident needs this year.
8. Neighbourhoods are back in town
Talk of new towns and a focus on neighbourhoods are back on the political agenda. What does this mean for social infrastructure? We’re interested in place-based solutions and pleased to see increasing recognition of their importance.
9. Place matters
There’s been a shift towards place-based working and place-based policymaking. What’s the impact? It could be empowering, bringing new energy, greater local control, more scope to seize opportunities and navigate threats where we live. But when responsibility is extended to communities, it needs to come with funding and resources.
10. Meaningful work takes time
The level of care and work needed to understand crucial and complex social issues – and to genuinely hear from the people affected – is not a quick fix. This is especially true when reaching those with traditionally less-heard voices.
11. Co-creation is our heartbeat
There’s always further we can go and more we can do, and we’re on a journey to co-create in our community research, our social innovation projects, and as much as possible between (including this article).
12. Behind the clouds is always the sun
The persistent optimism within our communities continues to bring hope and inspiration, driving our work for a fairer future.
Want to hear more about our work and approach? We’d love to hear from you so please do get in touch.
Community Families and youth Housing and regeneration Just transition Places Social innovation Posted on: 18 December 2025