The work we do every year changes lives. We step in to prevent children and young people from crisis by providing supported accommodation, support & advice, family mediation and counselling. By supporting young people, at this crucial stage in their lives (16-24), we can help them change their lives and create a better future for themselves.
Our impact in numbers
Why your support is needed now
We’re doing all we can to break the cycle of homelessness for young people in your community. We positively impact the lives of over 10,000 children, young people and families each year. But we’re not there yet. The need for our support and yours has never been greater.
70%
cuts in funding to youth services in the last 10 years.
20%
increase in demand for our housing support since the pandemic.
33%
of the young people we help have come from the care system.
1 in 20
children experience the death of a parent before the age of 16.
20%
of all homeless people in the UK are aged between 16 and 24.
40%
of 16 to 24 year olds have been temporarily homeless at some point.
Mapalo's Story
At 19, student Mapalo Bray faced homelessness, until we stepped in. Your gifts help people like Mapalo turn their life around to build a positive future.
How our work makes a difference
Sam’s story
Following on from two lockdowns and starting a new school, Sam was suffering from social anxiety. After reluctantly started therapy with us, Sam settled into the sessions and his worries began to lessen.
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.
Stacy’s story
Stacy was referred to our support and advice service after having trouble with her mental health. She started working with one of our support workers and has been feeling a lot happier in herself since.Â
