For too many young British Muslims, the feeling of never quite belonging and having to meet conflicting social expectations, creates despair during the formative years of adolescence. In a community where most social issues are a cultural taboo, increasing numbers of young people are resorting to self-harm and substance abuse for escape, and mental health problems appear disproportionately higher.
At a time when young Muslims are being bombarded with negative media portrayals, and an increasing number are suffering Islamophobia and discrimination, mainstream service providers are unable to meet the specific needs of young Muslims.