Young people who have experienced homelessness, family breakdown or trauma come to live at YMCA at crisis point. Often facing social isolation, they feel displaced from their life, forced to start again. Money worries, poor mental health and low self-esteem are major barriers to engaging in any activities, developing skills or creative talents. Yet, these are vital pathways for boosting wellbeing, forging friendships and building skills that will shape their future, including employment.

This project open up a world of new experiences, culture and learning for our young residents and ex-residents. We will first engage young people and secondly help them to discover their passions; from music and arts to nature and outdoor adventures, they can try taster workshops or local classes . We will then create pathways to growth and work opportunities through our partnerships and creative networks, including skills training and paid roles in our theatre.