Andrew Marr
Patron
As Patron of Mary’s, an organization 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.