A training and education charity has announced its closure due to financial challenges that have made it “impossible” to continue its work, its founder and chief executive has said.

Cherished provides support to children aged between four and 17 years old through mentoring and group work in schools, colleges and after-school venues.

The charity, based in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, said it could no longer continue, despite its best efforts after 14 years of service.

The charity recorded an income of £250,335 and spending of £267,531 in the year to the end of August 2023, latest accounts show.

The charity had an average head count of 10 employees during that period, according to the accounts.

Hannah Thomas, founder and chief executive of Cherished, said: “Sadly, like many charities across the UK, we have faced ongoing financial challenges that have made it impossible to continue our work.

“The reality is that non-profits, which play a crucial role in supporting society through its struggles, are not receiving the necessary funding to sustain their impact.

“While Cherished as an organisation will be closing, the seeds we have planted through our work will remain.

“The love, kindness and connection we have fostered in the hearts of those we have served will not be lost.”

Thomas said she started Cherished as an “18-year-old girl with a dream to change children’s lives”.

She said: “From supporting children in hundreds of schools across the Midlands to establishing community groups run throughout the week, Cherished has provided purpose to thousands of volunteers and students, as well as comfort and support for many worried families.”

The charity had supported thousands of children since 2011, offering them safety, connection and love, Thomas said.

“Our programmes have empowered young people, nurtured emotional wellbeing and provided a sense of belonging to those who needed it most,” she said.