As the UK prepares for the next General Election, YMCA has today launched a bold plan to urge political parties and leaders to seize the opportunity to create positive change for young people. Using the timely call to action of “Now’s Our Chance,” YMCA emphasises the critical need for comprehensive and targeted policies to address…
#YouthWorkWeek may be over, but the much needed spotlight on youth work lives on! We’d like to introduce you to Laura, an incredible Project Coordinator at YMCA Bradford for Y’s Girls Mentoring Programme funded by Benefact Trust. This invaluable project is empowering young people by embedding a trusted support system for girls aged 9-14 experiencing difficulties,…
A new report released by YMCA today shows that some 86% of young people under the age of 25 intend to vote in the forthcoming General Election. The survey of 1,054 young people highlighted that their key concerns are housing, jobs, health and inflation. Mobilising young voters could prove decisive for parties in key…
Benefits are too low to live on, especially for young people under the age of 25, suggests YMCA, a leading youth organisation supporting young people and adults. The charity has released a comprehensive research report shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals living in supported housing when trying to enter the workforce. The study,…
Starting on World Mental Health Day (10 October), YMCA is urging everyone to break the silence over mental health by initiating small but meaningful conversations with friends, colleagues and even strangers as part of their Small Talks, Big Difference initiative. Everyone struggles at times with their mental health, especially over the past 18 months, and…
As cases of mental health difficulties among young people continue to rise, it is more important than ever to take time out to prioritise mental wellbeing. YMCA is calling on the nation to do just that by taking a WHOLE HOUR for themselves on World Mental Health Day (10 October). Following the success of its…
“Being on the street is scary, very scary. When I was about 14 years old, I used to suffer with major anxiety because of bullying in school, I could not go into crowded places at all, I’d stay inside the house 24/7, I wouldn’t leave.” Lewis’ story is featured as part of our mental health fundraising…
“Before I went to YMCA, I was beyond depressed. Both my parents abused me as a child – psychological, physical, sexual abuse.” Rachel’s story is featured as part of our mental health fundraising appeal, which you can find out more about here. Please donate today to help young people like Rachel. “Looking back, I must…
Chelsea was sexually abused by a family member when she was just six years old. This horrific trauma was at the root of her multiple and undiagnosed mental health difficulties; she was hearing voices in her head and having flashbacks. Chelsea’s story is featured as part of our mental health fundraising appeal, which you can…
Mental health stigma is rife- I should know, I’ve spent a year working on a mental health campaign, but never spoke out myself. A year ago today, YMCA and the NHS launched the #IAMWHOLE campaign, to tackle mental health stigma by challenging harmful language and encourage young people to speak out and seek help. You’d…
