Friday 5 September 2025

Deputy Mayor for Children and Families Joanne McCartney visited Northumberland Park to see first-hand the impact of the Violence Reduction Unit’s (VRU) MyEnds Home Cooked programme, led locally by Bridge Renewal Trust.

Home Cooked, delivered in partnership with the North London Partnership Consortium, Godwin Lawson Foundation, Tottenham Hotspur Foundation and Open Door, is one of 11 community-led MyEnds networks across London. The programme empowers local people most affected by violence, enabling them to design and lead solutions that build resilience, create safer spaces, and inspire brighter futures.

The Deputy Mayor praised the work of Home Cooked and its partners, saying:

“It was wonderful to hear directly from young people about the difference these projects are making in their lives. The dedication of community groups in Northumberland Park is truly inspiring, and the VRU’s MyEnds programme is instrumental in ensuring this vital work continues."

During the visit, young people and partners spoke about the challenges they face and the opportunities made possible through the programme — from employability and mentoring to mental health support, youth leadership, and sport. Their stories highlighted the essential role of VRU funding in sustaining safe, community-led spaces.

Rachel Hughes, Chair of Bridge Renewal Trust, said:

“It was great to welcome the Deputy Mayor and share the impact of the Home Cooked programme. Together with our consortium partners, we continue to ensure young people’s voices are central, while building a strong, connected network of community organisations in Haringey.”

The Mayor of London’s recent £14.5 million investment in the VRU’s flagship prevention work ensures communities like Haringey can continue to lead meaningful change for young people. 

To learn more about the Home Cooked consortium and our work in Northumberland Park, click here