Launching the Sussex Youth Manifesto: a shared vision for change - YMCA DownsLink Group

Launching the Sussex Youth Manifesto: a shared vision for change

YMCA DOWNSLINK GROUP_Youth Homelessness and Mental Health website

We’re proud to launch the final Sussex youth manifesto, created through collaboration with organisations, practitioners, and young people from across the region. 

The Manifesto arose from discussions during our Brighton event held to mark World Homelessness and Mental Health Day in October 2025. 

It sets out clear priorities to tackle the urgent challenges facing young people — particularly youth homelessness, mental health, and access to stable housing and support. It reflects a collective commitment to cross county solutions at a time when strong regional leadership is needed more than ever. 

Although the introduction of a directly elected Mayor for Sussex and the new Mayoral Combined County Authority has been delayed until May 2028, the issues facing young people cannot be paused. We call on current leaders and prospective mayoral candidates to step forward now with interim commitments, practical collaboration, and shared action that bridges the transition period. 

This is a pivotal moment to shape the future for young people across Sussex — and we invite partners, policymakers, and community leaders to use this manifesto as a foundation for coordinated action. 

👇 Download the Sussex Youth Manifesto (PDF – click on image below)

If you would like to discuss the manifesto or opportunities for collaboration, please get in touch. 
For photos from the event and the full story, click here.

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