What we do - YMCA DownsLink Group

What we do

We change lives. We give young people the chance to fulfil their potential, whatever challenges they face

We prevent youth homelessness by providing young people with a safe place to live

Our support and advice services aim to prevent young people from facing crisis

We provide a range of counselling services to support young peoples' mental health

YMCA DownsLink Group is a charity that works to prevent young people from reaching crisis across Sussex and Surrey. We support young people, at a crucial stage in their lives, so that they can fulfil their potential.

Our local YMCA's can be found in Brighton & Hove, Crawley, Eastbourne & Hailsham, Guildford, Hastings, Horsham and Worthing.

Photo by Liz Finlayson/Vervate
YMCA DownsLink Challenge a 17.5-mile fundraising walk along the Downs Link Pathway from Horsham to Shoreham-by-Sea Saturday 15th July 2023 -

Accommodation at YMCA DownsLink Group

We offer a variety of accommodation throughout Sussex and Guildford. Every night give a home to more than 650 young people, who are homeless or, at risk of homelessness. On average a young person will stay with us for two years.

Our 'More than a Room' model of supported accommodation aims to equip young people with the skills and support needed to move on to independent living. This is achieved through a range of housing-related support services.

Our accommodation includes 24 hour staffed services, projects with daytime support staff, transitional housing schemes with visiting support, and, 'Move On' accommodation for those ready for independent living.

Support & Advice at YMCA DownsLink Group

YMCA DownsLink Group provides a wide range of support and advice services to young people in Sussex and Surrey. We provide emotional and practical support for young people aged 11-25.

We have two Youth Advice Centres in Brighton & Hove, and Crawley (YAC) and a dedicated project for any young person experiencing or at risk of sexual exploitation (YMCA WiSE).

Counselling at YMCA DownsLink Group

We are committed to supporting the mental health of young people in our local community by offering professional counselling and therapy. We are the largest provider of counselling to schools in Sussex as well as providing community counselling services. We also have a digital platform for young people looking for self-help support around some common issues.

Read young people's stories

Dani’s story

Dani’s life had been chaotic and unstable. Her social worker referred her to YMCA DownsLink Group, and, with the help of her YMCA WiSE project worker, she began to make better decisions around relationships and her future.

Millie’s story

Millie had a difficult childhood which impacted her mental health and resulted in her leaving home at just 16. She was given a home in our 24-hour supported accommodation and life began to improve when she received the wraparound care and consistent support she needed.

Temesgen’s story

At just 16, Temesgen had to leave his family in Ethiopia and start a new life in the UK. He was given a home with us and received support to learn English, take part in volunteering and join in with YMCA activities.

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YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by and faithful to our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive and energising communities, where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.

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