Independent study finds sport-led mentoring programme cuts crime and unemployment while generating millions in savings for public services.
Every £1 invested in an early intervention charity supporting at-risk young people generates up to £4.52 in savings to the public purse, according to a new independent study.
The research, published yesterday (17th February), was carried out by real estate advisor Bidwells and youth charity RE N-GAGE.
RE N-GAGE works with young people who are at risk of exclusion, or who have already been excluded from school. Many are often known to youth offending teams and face barriers to education and employment.
An Economic and Social Value Assessment was carried out pro bono by Bidwells’ Environment, Society and Economy team. It is the first independent study of RE N-GAGE’s economic impact and long-term cost savings.
The report estimates the charity generates £708,400 in combined economic and social value each year. That equates to £2.00 of value for every £1 spent.
It also found the charity’s core programmes, including the STRIDE mentoring course and follow-on Stay N-GAGED support, reduced school exclusion, unemployment and involvement in the criminal justice system.
Researchers roughly calculate the programmes save public services around £1.6m a year – equivalent to £4.52 for every £1 invested. Participants’ future earning prospects are thought to increase by more than £265,000 annually.
The findings are based on analysis of education, employment, health, justice and welfare costs, alongside interviews with young people on the programme.
Mark Teasdale, head of environment, society and economy at Bidwells, said: ‘In the research, we took a deliberately prudent approach to ensure that the benefits were not overstated. Even so, the huge scale of the public savings identified underlines the case for sustained investment in preventative programmes for at-risk young people.’
Roger Roberts, Trustee Chairman at RE N-GAGE, added: ‘This assessment strengthens the case for investing in early intervention and gives funders and partners clear evidence of the value these programmes create.
‘Most importantly, it reinforces a simple truth – that supporting young people instead of ignoring or punishing them improves their outcomes, and has major benefits for wider society.’
The report was first launched at RE N-GAGE‘s City of London lunch on Thursday 12th February 2026. Guests heard speeches from former rugby union player Phil Vickery and young people supported by the charity.
Image: Rosario Fernandes/UnSplash
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