Thursday 30 July 2026:
When I joined LMK five weeks ago, I expected to learn about the organisation’s work. What I didn’t expect was just how quickly I’d feel part of it.
From my very first conversation during the application process, I noticed something that has stayed with me ever since – everyone I meet speaks with genuine passion about LMK’s mission. Whether I was chatting with members of the Youth Advisory Board, the Core Team, leaders or trustees, there is a shared belief in creating healthier, safer relationships for young people.
Although we’re a team spread across the country, that sense of purpose connects everyone. It’s one of the biggest reasons I knew LMK was somewhere I wanted to be.
Starting a new role is always a little daunting, but I’ve been incredibly lucky to be welcomed with kindness, encouragement and generosity from day one. A special thank you goes to Shell, who helped me find my feet, as well as everyone who’s shared their knowledge, their time and even glimpses of life beyond work, whether that’s beautiful views from home or the many wonderful dog photos that brighten our days!
As we head into the summer, it feels like the perfect moment to reflect on just a few of the things the team has achieved together over the past few months.
Working together
One of the first things that struck me at LMK was the amount of collaboration that happens behind the scenes.
Recently, colleagues from across the organisation came together to develop a major funding application, with another significant bid already underway. While we’re still waiting to hear the outcomes, the process itself has been a brilliant example of teamwork, with people contributing ideas, expertise and enthusiasm from every corner of the organisation.
It’s a reminder that sustaining our work takes the same collaboration and commitment as delivering it.
Bringing conversations to more people
Another exciting milestone was LMK’s very first webinar: AI, deepfakes and the digital world: supporting young people to build healthy relationships.
Months of planning, preparation and promotion culminated in an event that brought together people eager to learn more about how AI is affecting young people’s relationships, and what we, as adults around them, can do about it. The feedback was incredibly encouraging, with attendees describing the session as “very informative” and leaving wanting even more discussion.
Launching a new way to engage with our community is a significant step forward, and I’m excited to see how this grows in the future.
Expanding our programme
This summer has also seen the launch of two new workshops: Relationships with AI and Power and Gender in Relationships.
These topics reflect the changing world young people are growing up in, exploring the influence of emerging technologies alongside important conversations about identity, power and respect.
Seeing how thoughtfully these programmes have been developed has reinforced just how committed the team is to keeping our work relevant, evidence-informed and responsive to young people’s lives.
Looking ahead
Although I’m still new to LMK, these first few weeks have shown me what makes this organisation so special.
It’s the people, the shared purpose, the willingness to keep learning, adapting and working together to create meaningful change for young people.
I’m incredibly grateful for such a positive start and feel proud to now play a small part in LMK’s mission.
As the team takes a well-earned summer break, I hope everyone has the opportunity to rest, recharge and return refreshed for what promises to be another exciting chapter. I know I’m already looking forward to September.
Chloe Coles