Tag: leicestershire funding

From the Streets to Green Spaces…

Posted on by Marc Ford

By Marc Ford MBA, Marketing & Digital Content Creator

 

If you’d told me a few years ago that a trip to a botanical garden could be life-changing, I probably would’ve nodded politely while internally rolling my eyes. But then I read an article about a former homeless man who found refuge and purpose at Kew Gardens after battling homelessness and addiction – and suddenly, it didn’t seem so far-fetched.

The piece, published in The Guardian, tells the story of someone who, after years of instability, discovered that tending to plants and immersing himself in nature gave him a sense of structure, stability, and self-worth. The rhythm of the seasons, the quiet labour of gardening, the simple act of nurturing something and watching it grow – all of it became a catalyst for change.

And honestly? That struck a chord. Because at YMCA Leicestershire, we see the same thing happening through our Roots to Resilience project.

Nature as a Lifeline

At its core, Roots to Resilience is a simple idea: give young people experiencing homelessness or mental health challenges the chance to connect with nature, develop skills, and rebuild confidence. We know that when life feels like an endless series of closed doors, something as simple as growing a tomato plant or digging a garden bed can be an unexpected source of empowerment.

Sounds too easy, right? But the evidence is overwhelming. Studies show that spending time in green spaces can lower stress levels, improve mental health, and even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. And when you’re a young person who’s been told “no” more times than you can count – no stable home, no job, no support network – being able to plant something and see it flourish is a quiet, but powerful, reminder that change is possible.

More Than Just a Patch of Dirt

For us, Roots to Resilience is about more than just planting a few flowers and calling it a day. It’s about giving young people the space to grow – literally and figuratively. It’s about offering structure, community, and a reason to get up in the morning. It’s about showing that life can move forward, even when everything feels stuck.

One of our young people recently put it better than I ever could:

“I never thought I’d care about plants. But when I saw something I planted actually growing, it felt like I was growing too.”

Now, I’m not saying that a garden alone can solve the youth homelessness crisis (if only it were that simple). But what I am saying is that we need more spaces where young people can heal, rebuild, and find purpose. Places where they can breathe – in every sense of the word.

So, whether it’s Kew Gardens, a YMCA project, or just a local community garden, let’s stop underestimating the power of nature to transform lives. Because sometimes, the smallest seed can grow into something pretty incredible.

If you want to support Roots to Resilience, get in touch. Because every young person deserves the chance to grow. 🌱

To find out more about our work: www.ymcaleics.org.uk

Abandoned & Forgotten: The Broken System Failing Our Young People

Posted on by Marc Ford

By Marc Ford MBA, Marketing & Digital Content Creator

 

Working at YMCA Leicestershire, I see first-hand the difference proper support can make in a young person’s life. But I also see what happens when that support isn’t there – when services buckle under pressure, and young people are left with nowhere to turn. This week, two major discussions have taken centre stage: the crisis in support services and the rise of innovative collaborations trying to patch the gaps. Let’s talk about both.

Support Services: The System is Failing Young People

A young person facing homelessness needs more than just a roof over their head -they need stability, guidance, and a real chance to rebuild. Unfortunately, across the UK, services meant to provide this are at breaking point.

Reports have surfaced that councils are failing to take homeless young people into care, instead placing them in unsuitable temporary accommodation. It’s a problem we see too often: a young person turns up at their local authority, seeking help, only to be handed the keys to a B&B room – isolated, unsupported, and completely unequipped for independent living. Worse are the councils that bound up in their own over prescriptive, sometimes in-decipherable bureaucracy, can’t place them full stop.

The Guardian recently highlighted this crisis, reporting that councils are “routinely ignoring their legal duty to house vulnerable young people,” leaving them at risk of exploitation, mental health struggles, and prolonged homelessness. The reality? Some of these young people end up back on the streets. Others drift between unstable housing situations, never getting the consistent support they need to break the cycle.

Even emergency shelters are struggling. In some areas, youth shelters are turning people away because they simply don’t have enough space. A recent report described the situation as “a source of national shame,” with rising numbers of rough sleepers and an overwhelmed system unable to cope.

Here at YMCA Leicestershire, we do everything we can to help young people before they reach this crisis point. But we need a system that works with us, not against us. We need councils to step up, to fulfil their legal obligations, and to recognise that a young person’s safety and future should never be an afterthought.

New Solutions: Cambridge Colleges & Local Innovations

Of course, where the system falls short, innovation steps in. Across the UK, organisations and communities are finding creative ways to fill the gaps.

One of the most exciting recent developments comes from Cambridge University, where two of its colleges have launched an initiative to support young people facing homelessness. Their goal? To give young people the tools to build a better future—not just by providing housing but by offering mentorship, education opportunities, and long-term support. This isn’t just about keeping young people off the streets; it’s about giving them the foundation to thrive.

Closer to home, similar schemes are emerging. In Droitwich, a new support programme has launched following successful trials in Evesham. The project is focused on young people aged 16 to 24, offering tailored support to help them find stable housing, secure employment, and develop life skills. It’s a simple concept but an effective one – meeting young people where they are and giving them the tools to move forward.

So, What Needs to Happen?

While these initiatives are inspiring, they shouldn’t be the exception – they should be the standard. The reality is that these kinds of programmes rely on funding, collaboration, and – crucially – a shift in mindset from those in power, willingly or not.

We shouldn’t have to rely on universities and local projects to do the job councils should be doing. We need systemic change – better funding for youth homelessness services, proper support for care leavers, and a legal framework that actually protects vulnerable young people rather than abandoning them to fend for themselves.

At YMCA Leicestershire, we’ll continue to fight for that change. But we also need you – the public, policymakers, and organisations – to stand with us. Support your local services. Challenge your councils. Advocate for real solutions. Because no young person should ever have to navigate homelessness alone.

The system is broken, but together, we can fix it.

To find out more about our work: www.ymcaleics.org.uk

Why Local Councils Are Failing Homeless Young People

Posted on by Marc Ford

By Marc Ford MBA, Marketing & Digital Content Creator

 

This past weekend, a sobering article in The Guardian raised alarm bells about how local councils are failing to take homeless 16 and 17-year-olds into care. Many young people in this age group are being left in unsafe, temporary housing arrangements, with little to no support to help them rebuild their lives. And let’s be clear: this isn’t just a problem confined to the big cities – it’s one we see right here in Leicester and across Leicestershire.

As the report pointed out, local authorities often skirt their duty under the law to offer young people the safety and security they need when they face homelessness. According to the Children’s Society, a charity that works to combat youth homelessness, too many councils are either not offering suitable accommodations or pushing youths into unsuitable living conditions that do more harm than good.

Let’s break this down: when a young person under 18 experiences homelessness, it’s not just about finding a roof over their head. It’s about the comprehensive care that comes with it – the emotional, psychological, and physical support to help them thrive. But in many cases, councils are simply placing these vulnerable teens in emergency hostels, hotel rooms or even on the streets. And without a consistent, supportive environment, how on earth can they ever begin to break the ‘cycle’?

Leicestershire is no stranger to these struggles. Our local services, including those at YMCA Leicestershire, are deeply invested in giving young people a second chance – offering more than just a place to sleep, but a safe space where they can receive the care, guidance, and support that they deserve. Our services span not just homelessness support, but also employment training, emotional well-being initiatives, and access to long-term housing, despite the challenges the latter is proving to be.

We see first-hand what can happen when young people are left to navigate homelessness alone. Many arrive at our doors already carrying the weight of trauma – broken homes, struggles with mental health, and deep feelings of isolation and loneliness. The work we aim to do isn’t just about meeting basic needs. It’s about offering a sense of belonging, a sense that no one is beyond help. And that’s something local authorities should be stepping up to provide as well.

We need to start seeing young people as people – fully deserving of safe, permanent homes. It’s time for councils to step up and meet their responsibilities. It’s crucial that we have a system that puts the young person at the centre, not just their immediate housing needs.

In our day-to-day work at YMCA Leicestershire, we’re pushing back against the stigma and challenges that come with being young and homeless. We are always reminded that the young people that we see are not homeless youths; they are just young people experiencing homelessness. Nothing is permanent, but it’s a constant fight. If local authorities aren’t stepping up to their responsibilities, the work we do becomes even more urgent – and increasingly more difficult.

When we hear about councils failing to provide care for vulnerable young people, it’s not just a headline. It’s a call to action. Local authorities need to recognise that youth homelessness is not a simple crisis of a bed and a meal; it’s a systemic issue that requires long-term, holistic solutions. Young people deserve better than to be left to fend for themselves, to be pushed aside into temporary, unsafe living situations.

So, what’s the answer? More collaboration, more funding, (yes, I know, everyone says that) and above all, a shift in perspective and an actual plan. We can’t keep treating homelessness and youth homelessness as a footnote in the housing crisis. These are the young people who will shape the future, but only if we offer them the tools, resources, and support to do so.

We must all be part of this change – from local councils to community organisations like YMCA Leicestershire, to each and every one of us who can play a role in supporting the future of our young people. It’s time to make sure no young person is left to face homelessness alone. The stakes are simply too high.

Tackling Homelessness: Hope, Hard Truths, and a Royal Spotlight

Posted on by Marc Ford

Youth homelessness in the UK is a crisis that refuses to be ignored. It’s a stark reality we at YMCA Leicestershire see every day – young people slipping through the cracks, sleeping in cars, on sofas, or worse, on the streets. But this week, amidst the usual mix of challenges and small victories, three big talking points have dominated the conversation: new initiatives making waves, a rise in worrying statistics, and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness – led, in part, by a certain future King.

Homewards: A Royal Helping Hand

Prince William’s Homewards initiative is back in the headlines, this time with a significant £63 million boost from Lloyds Banking Group. Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole are among the areas benefiting from a renewed focus on housing and job training for young people, with mental health support thrown into the mix.

Now, I’ll admit – whenever a big initiative like this gets a high-profile backer, my immediate reaction is usually a mix of cautious optimism and a weary sigh. We’ve seen grand gestures before, but not all of them deliver real change. However, what makes Homewards different is its ambition: it’s not just about temporary fixes but creating long-term, sustainable solutions. As Prince William put it, the project aims to “make homelessness rare, brief, and unrepeated.”

That’s a bold statement – but let’s hope this isn’t just another well-meaning attempt that fizzles out when the cameras stop rolling. We need sustained funding, real structural change, and – crucially – more input from the organisations on the ground who deal with this every day.

A Rising Tide: The Grim Reality of Youth Homelessness in 2024

While Homewards offers some light, the latest statistics are a sobering reminder of just how deep the problem runs. Centrepoint’s Youth Homelessness Databank has revealed that 1 in 62 young people in the UK faced homelessness in 2023-24. That’s not just a number; it’s a national disgrace.

Even more alarming is the situation for young people leaving the care system. Action for Children reports that over 4,000 young care leavers have faced homelessness this year – a staggering 54% increase in the last five years. This tells us what we already know: the system is failing young people who don’t have a safety net.

At YMCA Leicestershire, we see these numbers play out in real life. We meet young people daily who have been let down by the very structures meant to protect them. They turn 18, and suddenly, the support that should be guiding them into independence disappears. No stable housing, no job prospects, and a complex system that expects them to navigate adult responsibilities alone. These statistics aren’t just figures on a spreadsheet; they represent real lives, real struggles, and a desperate need for better solutions.

The Power of Awareness (and a Well-Timed Royal Spotlight)

When Prince William speaks about youth homelessness, people listen. That’s just a fact. And while we might wish the issue didn’t need a royal stamp of approval to get attention, the reality is that high-profile advocacy helps bring much-needed awareness and, crucially, funding.

In a recent interview, Prince William reflected on his mother’s influence, stating that Princess Diana’s work with homelessness charities continues to inspire him. “More than ever, I feel her presence in the work I do,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to tackling the issue.

We need that kind of visibility. We need more people talking about this crisis, more funding directed to frontline services, and – most importantly – more political will to create real, lasting change.

So, what’s next? Well, beyond the royal headlines and the shocking statistics, the fight against youth homelessness continues. At YMCA Leicestershire, we’ll keep pushing, keep supporting, and keep making noise. Because homelessness should never be a defining chapter in a young person’s life – it should be a problem we solve, not just a reality we report on.

If you want to be part of that solution, get involved. Support your local YMCA, advocate for policy change, and most importantly, never stop challenging the system that allows this crisis to continue.

The time for action is now.

To find out more about our work: www.ymcaleics.org.uk

Rising Youth Homelessness: A Call to Action and Community Support

Posted on by Marc Ford

In recent years, the issue of youth homelessness in England has moved from the shadows into the public eye, revealing a troubling trend that deserves our attention. As I reflected on the insights shared in a recent article on Humanium – detailing how a growing number of young people find themselves without stable homes – I felt compelled to explore this topic further and to highlight the compassionate work of organisations like YMCA Leicestershire, as well as the broader YMCA network.

A Troubling Trend

The Humanium article paints a stark picture of youth homelessness, outlining the increasing pressures young people face in a rapidly changing economic and social landscape. With rising rents, diminishing affordable housing, and complex personal challenges, many young individuals are left vulnerable and at risk. The report reminds us that “the reality for many young people today is one of uncertainty and instability,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with communities across England. This growing crisis not only disrupts the lives of the affected individuals but also challenges our societal structures and our collective commitment to support those in need.

YMCA Leicestershire: Steadfast Support in Uncertain Times

Against this backdrop, YMCA Leicestershire stands out as a beacon of hope and practical support. Their work is grounded in the belief that every young person deserves a safe space, guidance, and a pathway to a brighter future. By offering tailored programs that include emergency accommodation, counselling, and skills development workshops, YMCA Leicestershire is directly addressing the multifaceted needs of homeless youth.

One of the core strengths of YMCA Leicestershire is its holistic approach. They understand that housing is only one piece of the puzzle. Their services extend to emotional support and community integration, ensuring that young people not only have a roof over their heads but also a supportive network to help them navigate life’s challenges. As one of their dedicated team members recently shared, “We’re not just offering a bed for the night; we’re providing a hand up, a chance to rebuild trust and confidence.”

The Wider YMCA Network: A Global Perspective on Local Issues

The broader YMCA network, known for its longstanding commitment to community development and social justice, plays a crucial role in this fight against youth homelessness. Across the globe, YMCA branches work in tandem to share resources, innovative solutions, and best practices that help mitigate the challenges of homelessness. Their emphasis on creating safe spaces, fostering personal growth, and building resilient communities is a powerful counterbalance to the forces that drive homelessness.

Drawing on a shared legacy of service and community care, the YMCA’s efforts remind us that every individual matters, regardless of their current circumstances. This philosophy not only underpins their work in providing immediate relief but also fuels long-term strategies aimed at empowering young people to reclaim their lives.

A Relaxed Reflection on Community and Compassion

In our fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to overlook the struggles that many young people endure silently. The rising trend of youth homelessness is a sobering reminder of the work still to be done. Yet, within these challenges, there lies an opportunity for communities to come together, to listen, and to act with compassion. Organisations like YMCA Leicestershire and the wider YMCA network demonstrate that change is possible when we invest in our youth -providing not just shelter, but hope, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As we navigate these complex issues, let us remember that a community’s strength is measured not by its wealth or its resources, but by the care it shows to its most vulnerable members. By standing together and supporting initiatives that offer both immediate relief and long-term solutions, we can help transform the lives of young people across England and beyond.

In closing, the call to action is clear: let us all be part of a movement that ensures every young person finds a place where they can grow, learn, and thrive. Because in the end, the future of our communities depends on the well-being of our youth.

Reference: Rising youth homelessness: England’s troubling trend – Humanium

To find out more about our work: www.ymcaleics.org.uk

Beyond the Headlines: What Reports Say About Youth Mental Health

Posted on by Marc Ford

In recent years, the mental health of young people has become a pressing concern, with significant increases in anxiety, depression, and other related issues. Reports indicate that one in five children and young people in England now experience a mental health issues, a notable rise from one in nine in 2017.* This escalating crisis underscores the critical need for charity organisations like YMCA Leicestershire to deeply understand and address the mental health challenges faced by our youth.

The Current Landscape of Youth Mental Health

The “Big Mental Health Report 2024” by Mind highlights a concerning trend: mental health services are struggling to keep pace with the growing demand. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated feelings of loneliness and anxiety among young people. Additionally, evidence suggests that the decline in psychological wellbeing in schools has accelerated since the pandemic. ** This situation is further compounded by financial pressures, with many young individuals facing significant debt and economic challenges, leading to increased stress and mental health issues. ***

YMCA Leicestershire’s Commitment to Youth Mental Health

At YMCA Leicestershire, we recognise the profound impact that mental health has on the overall well-being and future prospects of young people. Our strategies are designed to provide comprehensive support, focusing on early intervention, community engagement, and holistic care. Key initiatives include:

  • Integration of Mental Health First Aiders: We have trained staff members to identify and support young individuals exhibiting signs of mental distress, ensuring timely and appropriate assistance.
  • Collaborative Community Projects: Through partnerships with local organisations, we offer accessible mental health services within the community, reducing barriers to support. Our involvement in the “Decider Skills” project exemplifies this commitment, aiming to deliver mental health and wellbeing projects tailored to our young people’s needs. ****
  • Educational Workshops and Resources: We’re providing programs that equip young people with coping strategies, resilience-building techniques, and information to navigate mental health challenges effectively.
  • Policy Development for Comprehensive Support: Recognising the diverse challenges faced by young people, we have introduced policies addressing various aspects of well-being, including menopause support and death-in-service benefits, ensuring a supportive environment for everyone working in the organisation, giving them the opportunity to support people at their best. *****

Looking Ahead

Understanding and addressing the mental health needs of young people is not just a responsibility but a necessity. By staying informed through the latest research and reports, such as those from the Centre for Mental Health and the Children’s Commissioner, and by implementing targeted strategies, YMCA Leicestershire is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where young individuals can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.

As we move forward, our focus remains on adapting to the evolving challenges faced by our youth, ensuring that our services are both relevant and effective in promoting mental well-being and providing them with the chance to discover who they were really meant to be.

*Source: Mind

**Source: post.parliament.uk

***Source: The Times

****Source: leicesterpart.nhs.uk

*****Source: issuu.com

The Youth Funding Crisis On OUR Doorstep

Posted on by Marc Ford

It’s no secret that youth services in Leicestershire have been facing some serious challenges. With funding cuts hitting hard, the impact isn’t just being felt by young people – it’s affecting entire communities. At YMCA Leicestershire, just like our colleagues at YMCA England and Wales, we’re deeply concerned about where this is heading and what it means for the future of our region.

The Current Landscape

Youth services across Leicestershire have been struggling with financial constraints that make it harder to offer the support that young people need. A report by Leicestershire Cares reveals that 40% of children in Leicester city are living in poverty – and many of them come from working families. In the wider county, child poverty rates sit between 10% and 20%. These aren’t just numbers; they represent real young people who need safe spaces, guidance, and opportunities to build a better future. (Leicestershire Cares)

And the financial pressures don’t stop there. Leicester City Council is teetering on the brink of declaring bankruptcy, which will inevitably mean cuts to vital services. County and district councils are also having to make tough decisions, and unfortunately, young people are often the ones who lose out the most. (Leicestershire Cares)

The Impact on Youth Services

When funding gets cut, it’s young people who feel the brunt of it. Youth centres are closing, mental health support is dwindling, and opportunities for education, recreation, and mentorship are becoming harder to access. These services aren’t just ‘nice-to-haves’ – they’re essential for helping young people grow into confident, resilient adults.

The Youth Justice Plan for 2023-2026 makes it clear how crucial early intervention is for at-risk youth. But without the right funding – and with councils already struggling financially – putting these plans into action is becoming more and more difficult. That means too many young people are left without the support they need to navigate life’s challenges. (Leicestershire County Council)

A Call to Action

This crisis isn’t something we can just sit back and watch unfold. At YMCA Leicestershire, we’re standing alongside national voices calling for urgent action to turn things around. Investing in young people isn’t just about doing the right thing – it’s about creating a future where they can contribute positively to their communities, workplaces, and society as a whole.

We’re calling on local authorities, businesses, and community members to step up and recognize just how important youth services are. If we work together to find sustainable solutions, we can ensure that every young person in Leicestershire has the support they need to thrive.

The Bottom Line

This funding crisis is happening right here, right now. The future of our community depends on the choices we make today. At YMCA Leicestershire, we’re committed to standing up for young people – but we can’t do it alone. It’s time for everyone to play their part in tackling this crisis and securing a brighter future for the next generation.

 

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