About Elevate

A coaching charity with over a decade of experience transforming young people's lives across Wales.

Our Story

Elevate was established in 2008 as part of a local church community cohesion initiative in Barry. We saw too many young people falling through the gaps — not unwell enough for clinical services, but clearly struggling. Schools were overwhelmed. Waiting lists were growing.

In 2013, we focused our efforts on coaching support within education for at-risk youth. By 2015, we became an independent charity with our own trustee committee, responsible for our own fundraising and strategic direction.

What started as a small community project has grown into a Wales-wide charity, trusted by over 40 schools. We've supported over 4,600 young people and trained more than 1,700 coaches.

4,621
Young People Coached
87%
Improved Self-Concept
1,733
Coaches Trained
42
Partner Schools

What Makes Us Different

We Coach, We Don't Fix

We believe young people have the answers within them — they just need skilled support to find them. Our approach empowers rather than prescribes.

Evidence-Based Framework

We use DNA-V, a cutting-edge psychological flexibility model grounded in ACT research but delivered in accessible, engaging ways for young people.

Welsh Roots, Welsh Language

Based in Barry, we understand Welsh communities. Many of our coaches deliver sessions in Welsh, ensuring young people can express themselves in their first language.

Our Values

Believe in Potential

Every young person has strengths, even when they can't see them yet.

Build Capacity

We don't create dependency. We equip schools and individuals to sustain change.

Stay Curious

We ask questions rather than give answers. Curiosity is at the heart of great coaching.

Be Brave

Coaching requires courage — for coaches and young people alike. We create safe spaces for that courage to emerge.

Our Accreditations

We take quality seriously. Our training programmes are:

  • Agored Cymru registered — nationally recognised Welsh qualifications
  • Association for Coaching (AC) organisational member — meeting international coaching standards
  • University of South Wales partner — providing student placement opportunities
  • ipen partner — supporting evidence-based practice

Who We Work With

We collaborate with local authorities, schools, universities, and community groups across Wales.

WCVA University of South Wales Vale of Glamorgan Sport Wales National Lottery Cardiff Council Street Games Communities First

Partner schools include Cowbridge Comprehensive, Bryn Hafren Secondary, Pencoedtre High, and Willows High School.

Elevate have shown that as an organisation, they really care for the young people.

— D.G, School Administrator

Want to Know More?

We'd love to tell you more about our work and explore how we might help your school.

Get in Touch