About Us | Building Purpose – Mentoring & Care
About Us
Building Purpose was founded in 2024 by our director, Julian Warner, a man whose journey has shaped the heart of everything we do. After serving five years in prison, Julian came face to face with a striking reality: inside the walls there were countless services, programmes, and opportunities for personal growth—but on the outside, where they were needed most, there was little to help young people from slipping into the same cycles.
During his time in custody, Julian immersed himself in restorative justice and psychology courses, uncovering not just his own potential for change, but a calling: to help reverse the pipeline that too often leads care-experienced youth into the criminal justice system. Yet for Julian, this mission wasn’t enough. Why stop at prevention, when there’s a chance to ignite possibility?
Since leaving custody, Julian has partnered with schools, outreach initiatives, and community organisations, not just to give back—but to walk forward with the young people he serves. His passion is not simply in creating a programme that works, but in creating one that transforms: a space where hope is not a fleeting spark, but a flame that lights the path ahead. At Building Purpose, every child who steps through our doors is more than a participant—they are a story in the making. We don’t just offer mentoring, activities, and guidance. We offer presence. We walk alongside each young person, helping them see their worth, discover their strengths, and shape a future that belongs to them.
This is more than outreach. It’s a promise: that every young person deserves not only the chance to hope, but the tools, belief, and support to thrive.
Employability and Careers Advice Workshops
Where young people are encouraged and helped to develop the skill set and confidence needed to navigate their ideal careers. From CV making, interview training, motivational speaking to financial literacy — we cover it all to ensure our young people are not just ready for work but will thrive once they are working.
Counselling (Building Purpose Counselling Service)
Our in-house counsellor engages with each child once a month at no extra cost to tackle any deep-rooted issues they may have, and to assess how Building Purpose is helping their personal development. For more complex cases, additional sessions can be arranged at a small fee.
Skilled Mentors Dedicated to Supporting Young People
- Child protection and safeguarding best practices
- Trauma-informed communication and behaviour support
- Managing disclosures and maintaining professional boundaries
- Equality, diversity, and inclusive practice
Why it works
We don’t just fill time – we build
futures.
Many young people in and out of care haven’t
had consistent, encouraging adult
figures or safe spaces to express
themselves. Our approach replaces
harmful influences with structure,
community, and real opportunities
to thrive – helping young people
shift from survival to self-belief.
Why Choose Us
Tailored for different abilities and age groups
Our sessions are inclusive, adaptable, and sensitive to emotional and developmental needs.
Built on lived experience and trust
Our mentors and facilitators understand what young people in care are facing - many have lived it themselves and model resilience every day.
Flexible delivery
We bring sessions directly to your home or partner locations - weekly, themed, or as one-off experiences.
Safeguarding
Getting Started on a Journey of Growth and Confidence
Take the first step towards empowering your young person. Explore our tailored mentoring packages, discover the activities and support we offer, and see how Building Purpose can help them build resilience, confidence, and a brighter future.