Spurgeons Network resources a growing network of Christians working with children, young people and families in their local communities. We encourage, support and link together individuals, churches and Christian organisations who are motivated by their faith to bring about change in the lives of children and young people.
                                                                                          
The Network was set up by the children’s charity Spurgeons as a practical expression of our belief that local churches and Christians have a vital role to play in demonstrating God’s kingdom at work in their community, particularly in responding to the needs of children and young people.

We can share with churches and Christians our distinct perspective of years of experience working with children, young people and families across the statutory, voluntary and faith sectors and our Christian faith.


What our faith means for the way we work

The Christian faith that inspired our founder, Charles Haddon Spurgeon continues to be an active and important motivation for all of Spurgeons work, including the Network. Our Faith Basis also underpins our Core Values and the way we work. We understand the motivation of our members and the importance of maintaining a Christian ethos and distinctiveness in working with and for the community. Whilst it can present challenges and difficulties, it also presents great hope and opportunities for transformation.



What does Spurgeons Network offer? 

Membership of Spurgeons Network offers

• information and access to advice and resources including a regular e-newsletter and members’ website
• learning, networking and mentoring opportunities with other similar projects
• the opportunity to sound out issues, opportunities & challenges with a friendly and informed team 
• a range of consultancy services and bespoke packages of support, including specialist input from our Network Adviser
• ideas and best practice examples to develop your project 
  

It costs just £25 a year for an individual to join or £100 for an organisation (which entitles more than one person to training, website access, newsletters etc)

“If you are an individual, church or Christian organisation which is passionate about engaging with children and young people in your local community, then you need to join Spurgeons Network. They have the experience and practical knowledge to help you achieve the best outcomes for those you serve.” The Faithworks Team

 For more on our Bespoke Professional Support click here

For an application form click here

The Why, What and How? of successful mentoring with young people

A Spurgeons Network learning event, facilitated by Chris Spriggs, Director of Lifespace 

Tuesday 2 February 2010 St Georges Centre, Leeds10.30 am – 3.30 pm  

Why you should think about mentoring in your work with young people?

What is successful mentoring?

How do you put it into practice?  

Mentoring young people is not a magic bullet which solves all their problems but it can be a really valuable tool to help them make positive changes in their lives. This day is about learning the basics of good theory and practice, exploring areas of interest and difficulty and hearing from others about their experience. 

 - what is mentoring (and what it isn’t) and why do it?

- outcomes for young people

- training and supporting mentors- is it different because we’re Christian?

 - linking in with other agencies- funding issues & sources  

We’ve deliberately kept this to a gathering of about a dozen people so that there will be time for sharing and working on attendees’ specific situations and questions. So places are limited and expected to go quickly! Click here to book your place or ring Jane or Sally on 01902 877560  

Cost:    £15 for Spurgeons Network members £30 for non members (refundable on joining Spurgeons Network) 

Chris Spriggs founded Lifespace in 2004 as a response to the emotional needs of young people facing disadvantage and difficulty that he came across as a teacher and educator. He is also a professionally trained Mediator, a Certified Coach (ABNLP) a Certified Practitioner of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) and has a range other qualifications including in Counselling and Protective Behaviours.  Bizarrely, he also has a degree in Accountancy & Finance BA (Hons) which means that he knows about project finances! When he’s not running Lifespace, he’s running marathons, growing vegetables and trying to win people over to Fairtrade.  His heroes include Lance Armstrong, Jesus Christ, Rosie Swale-Pope and George Alagiah.