Big Leaf Foundation is a product of first-hand experience working with displaced young people. Our team saw an opportunity to change their situation and help them feel a sense of inclusion within their network of peers and the wider community. Both academic research and direct experience has shown that to be received with respect and kindness, to meet compassion and understanding in the early days after arrival in the UK, and to build a trusted relationship with an adult can make all the difference to the ability of separated children to find their feet and to move forward with a sense of hope and positivity for a secure future here. It’s this knowledge that drives what we do and how we do it. Our team includes refugee care and migration studies experts, experienced youth workers, ex-social workers and finance, project management, fundraising and communications specialists. The team has combined experience of more than 20 years working with displaced young people. We are committed to supporting displaced young people to participate in the development and leadership of Big Leaf and this is a core aim of our new young leaders programme - launching later in 2021.