Adolescence Effect – 1 June 2026
Deloitte hosts breakfast event with London Women’s Forum and Tender
Deloitte hosted a breakfast event in collaboration with the London Women’s Forum and Tender, a UK-based charity focused on preventing domestic abuse and sexual violence through education.
Tender works with young people across schools and community settings, using creative and interactive approaches to explore themes such as consent, respect and communication. Their programmes aim to equip young people with the understanding and confidence to build healthy relationships.
The session featured insights from Susie McDonald MBE, CEO of Tender, and Deputy Head Teacher Laura Sandford of Mulberry Academy Woodside in Haringey. Susie brought over 30 years of experience in arts-based social change, highlighting how theatre and creative programmes can build confidence, resilience and communication skills. Laura provided a valuable frontline perspective, drawing on her work in safeguarding and student welfare, with a focus on child protection, mental health and emotional wellbeing.
The discussion explored the complex challenges facing young people today, including the influence of social media on self-esteem, identity and belonging. Speakers emphasised the importance of education that goes beyond statutory requirements, helping young people understand what it means to form respectful and healthy relationships.
They also reflected on the broader context in which these challenges sit. Social media continues to shape young people’s confidence, sense of identity and mental health in profound ways. At the same time, policy and guidance are struggling to keep pace with rapid societal and technological change. Many adults—teachers, parents and carers—are navigating these conversations without sufficient confidence, training or support, highlighting the need for greater clarity and accessible resources.
A key theme was the value of specialist, school-based programmes such as Tender’s RE:SET initiative, which supports the delivery of high-quality relationships education. These programmes are particularly important in school environments where competing demands and limited training can make it difficult to address these topics in depth.
Importantly, the session also highlighted the significant potential of young people. With the right environment and guidance, they are well placed to develop the awareness, confidence and judgement needed to make positive and healthy choices.
Deloitte would like to thank the London Women’s Forum, Tender and all participants for contributing to an insightful and impactful discussion.
