Leroy's legacy: how a south London charity is supporting young people's wellbeing

Duffus Community Foundation (DCF) supports children and young people from South London and Surrey who are experiencing difficulties with confidence, self-esteem or any other wellbeing challenges.

The family-run foundation, led by Brian Duffus, uses an evidence-based approach to deliver targeted one-to-one mentoring, access to community youth groups, leadership opportunities and more.

Here, Brian talks about what prompted the launch of the business, the challenges he faces as a business owner and how Grow London Local has supported his business journey.

What inspired you to launch DCF?

DCF was founded by my late brother, Leroy Duffus. Leroy was terminally ill with cancer when he decided to create a family legacy by giving back in the area of expertise he knew best.

The charity foundation was launched in 2017, with Leroy sadly passing away in September 2018. Everything we do to support young people with improving their mental health and wellbeing is in honour of Leroy.

Our work spans several London boroughs, including Croydon, Sutton, Merton and, soon, Bromley.

Our interventions include targeted one-to-one mentoring, universal community youth groups and holiday sessions. More recently, we've provided a community space serving youth, adults and seniors.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner and how have you overcome them?

As a grassroots charity, challenges are constant. The two biggest are financial sustainability to maintain service delivery, and staffing. Having the right team is critical as recruitment mistakes can be costly.

To address financial sustainability, we've implemented a robust strategy that focuses on diversifying income streams. Regarding staffing, we've refined the recruitment and induction process to make sure we bring in the right people and set them up for success.

How did you hear about Grow London Local, and what has your experience been like?

I first met a member of the Grow London Local team at a networking event in 2023. Following an engaging conversation with Business Support Manager Danny Gomez, we set up a meeting to explore how they could support me.

I was soon connected to Innovate UK, an organisation that provides valuable business mentoring, which has been incredibly beneficial.

Grow London Local has also supported my personal development by providing a business mentor for me, and helped raise the charity's awareness and reach.

What impact has your Business Support Manager had on your business journey?

They've inspired me to dream big, stay focused on actionable goals and plan strategically for success.

Would you recommend Grow London Local to other small businesses?

Yes. Grow London Local takes your development to the next level, offering tools and connections that truly make a difference.

What's next for DCF? Any exciting developments on the horizon?

DCF has recently launched a community space called Unity Junction. Located at the St Nicholas Shopping Centre in Sutton, the space serves all members of the community, from youths to adults and seniors.

Unity Junction hosts a variety of free activities, including therapeutic arts sessions, yoga, after-school drop-ins, talking therapy sessions and even an autism youth group.

This holistic project represents a new chapter for us, and our ultimate goal is for the space to be run by its service users.

Finally, what advice would you give to other small businesses in London?

Stay consistent and trust the process. Challenges will come, but perseverance and a clear plan will help you push through.

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