What we do
Every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.
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
We work alongside children and young people across Sussex and Surrey so they can be safe, heard and shape their own futures. By providing support early, we help prevent crisis and respond quickly when it’s needed.
We offer safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice that is joined up, accessible and built around young people’s lives - helping them build confidence, strengthen their wellbeing and realise their potential.
Our supported accommodations can be found in Brighton & Hove, Crawley, Eastbourne & Hailsham, Guildford, Hastings, Horsham and Worthing.
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
George’s story
When George* was 14, his life seemed normal until his mother struggled with mental health and his father left the family. Feeling abandoned, George […]
Lily’s story
From care experience to national advocacy: at just 12 years old, “Lily” had to leave home and move in with foster carers. Her parents […]
Dee’s story
Dee dreams of being a champion. She wants to represent Britain as part of the GB boxing team. Despite facing challenges as a teenager, with our support, she’s thriving and is working hard to turn her dreams into reality.
