YMCA

The Oldest Theatre – The Freshest Acts

Posted on 8 January 2025 by Marc Ford

Watch the Full Report above

One of the the things that YMCA Leicestershire are custodians of, apart from young people who have experienced homelessness, is the Leicester’s oldest theatre, The Y Theatre. This was reflected in our ‘Impact Report’ for ’23-’24 and here are some of the highlights…

Hannah Torrance, the Theatre and Arts Manager, reflected on a remarkable year for the Leicester YMCA’s arts program, highlighting their vibrant participation in the Leicester Comedy Festival. “We had some really big names!,” she recalls, emphasising the festival’s success and the venue’s bustling energy. This year, the venue hosted between three to five shows weekly, surging to twenty-six events during the festival’s week and a half. However, the organisation faces a challenge since its primary mission – supporting young people -makes it ineligible for traditional arts funding. As Hannah notes, “We’re entirely reliant on the ticket sales that we get from events and the generosity of the charity,” stressing the importance of community support to sustain Leicester’s oldest theatre as a vital cultural and historical space.

In addition to preserving the theatre, Hannah and her team have focused on youth development, offering young people skills training that can translate into real-world employment. “We’ve started to look at customer service and barista training as part of our front of house team,” she shares, also mentioning an upcoming technical training program. Their recent involvement with ‘In Good Company,’ a Midlands-based arts collective, aims to expand opportunities for local artists and deepen community engagement. Torrance is excited to welcome young people onto the team, providing them with vital skills and experience. For many of these young people, as she explains, “…education… can then become a barrier to those early employment opportunities,” but by supporting them with initial work experience, the YMCA aims to foster future opportunities in the arts and beyond.

Hannah goes on to discuss; “What a brilliantly busy year it’s been! We’ve built on past successes, welcomed larger audiences, and delivered a fantastic programme of comedy, music, drama, and so much more. It’s been an absolute joy to see our stage graced by incredible talents like Suzi Ruffell, Aurie Styla, James Haskell, Bridget Christie, Francis Rossi, Mahalia, Richard Blackwood, Zoe Lyons, Seann Walsh, The Coral, Rosie Jones, Mark Watson, Richard Herring, and Ivo Graham.

With such a packed programme, we’ve expanded our core team, and for the first time since the pandemic, we now have a full complement of staff. This puts us in an exciting position to broaden our theatre’s work across Leicester in new and impactful ways.

Leicester Comedy Festival remains a yearly highlight, and this year was no exception. We hosted our biggest festival programme yet and were absolutely thrilled to retain our title as Best Large Venue at the Leicester Comedy Festival Awards for the third year running—especially knowing it’s voted for by our audiences. What an honour!

A key focus this year has been deepening our engagement with YMCA Leicestershire residents. Our Events Lab workshops have been an incredible way to share the team’s expertise and open up career pathways. These weekly sessions have been wonderfully varied, from barista training and sound and lighting design to theatre programming, lino printing, and audio recording techniques. It’s been inspiring to see the enthusiasm and creativity these workshops have sparked.

In February and March, we were proud to be part of the BBC’s Bring The Drama festival, hosting free interactive workshops that offered a behind-the-scenes look at how we deliver our programme of events. The workshops attracted participants of all ages, some traveling from as far as Birmingham and London to join in the fun.

Reflecting on the year, I feel immense pride in what we’ve achieved as a team and excitement for where we’re heading next. Here’s to another year of creativity, collaboration, and connection!”

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/IsudY59uWg0

Read the FULL Impact Report here: https://bit.ly/417KIQ7

22,236 PEOPLE ATTENDED A SHOW

215 UNIQUE EVENTS

18 SOLD-OUT SHOWS

No Place Like Home

Posted on 17 December 2024 by Marc Ford

No Place Like Home: The Challenges Young People Facing Homelessness Endure at Christmas

For most of us, Christmas is a time of warmth. It’s a day wrapped in traditions: family, laughter, familiar smells of food, and a quiet sense of belonging. The festive lights might glow a little brighter, and the cold of winter feels softer when you have a place to call home.

But for thousands of young people experiencing homelessness, the Christmas period can amplify their isolation, anxiety, and the harsh realities they face every day. The streets are colder, the nights longer, and the world’s focus on togetherness can feel like a cruel spotlight on what they don’t have.

We also know that blog posts like this, during this period are ten-a-penny, and usually with a ‘donate’ button on the end. But not today.

Why Christmas Hits Harder

We have found over and over again that young people without a stable home, Christmas can be one of the loneliest and most challenging times of the year. While others are posting pictures of decorated trees, full tables, and matching pyjamas with the family including weird Uncle Joe, these young individuals are navigating circumstances that many of us struggle to imagine.

The Cold is Unforgiving: Winter doesn’t wait for solutions. When temperatures drop, those without shelter face real dangers – hypothermia, illness, and exhaustion. Finding a warm place isn’t just about comfort; it’s about survival.
A Lack of Belonging: Christmas bombards us with images of family, joy, and connection. It’s everywhere – adverts, TV movies, magazines, radio adverts, catalogues, etc. For young people without these relationships or stability, the constant reminders can feel like a wound that doesn’t heal. They may have been let down by systems, families, or circumstances beyond their control. The festive period only amplifies the feeling that they’re on the outside looking in.
Services Can Struggle: Organisations and charities like ours, do everything they can to support vulnerable young people, but resources are stretched. You only have to have switched on the news or gone to your social media of choice to have seen that. Demand often outpaces supply. Emergency shelters fill up quickly, and some young people face nights without a safe place to go.

The Hidden Crisis of Youth Homelessness

As a charity we are aware that we suffer a problem and that’s that youth homelessness isn’t always visible. It’s not just rough sleeping, though that’s devastating enough. It’s sofa-surfing at a friend’s house. It’s temporary hostels and shelters. It’s sleeping in cars or staying in unsafe environments because there’s no better option. These experiences take a toll, not just physically but mentally and emotionally.

Young people experiencing homelessness often feel unseen. During Christmas, a time so steeped in ideas of home and togetherness, that invisibility can feel overwhelming. A season that celebrates joy becomes a reminder of what’s missing.

The Long-Term Impact

Homelessness doesn’t stop when the Christmas lights come down. For young people, even short periods without a home can disrupt education, employment, and mental health for years to come. When you’re focused on where to sleep or how to stay warm, hopes, dreams, and plans for the future can fall by the wayside.

Christmas, therefore, isn’t just difficult because of the immediate challenges. It can also underscore the long-term barriers these young people face: lack of opportunity, broken support systems, and a future that feels far from hopeful.

What Can Be Done?

While the scale of youth homelessness is daunting, the actions we take – as individuals, communities, and organisations – can genuinely make a difference.

Provide Practical Support: Donations to shelters, food banks, and youth support services help meet immediate needs. Warm clothes, sleeping bags, toiletries, and food are essentials that can save lives.
Support Organisations that Offer Stability: Charities and community initiatives like YMCA Leicestershire work year-round to provide young people with more than just temporary shelter. They offer guidance, education, mental health support, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
Raise Awareness: Youth homelessness often remains invisible. Sharing stories, volunteering, and advocating for policies that address the root causes of homelessness can create lasting change.
Show Compassion: Small gestures can go a long way. A kind word, a hot drink, or simply acknowledging someone’s existence can make them feel seen during a season where loneliness cuts deepest.

The True Meaning of Christmas

At its heart, Christmas is about giving – not just gifts, but time, care, and kindness. It’s about creating spaces of belonging and reminding those who feel forgotten that they matter.

For young people experiencing homelessness, a safe, warm place to stay can be the difference between despair and hope. As we gather with our families and loved ones, let’s also remember those for whom Christmas is a harder story to tell.

Because everyone deserves to feel that sense of home – not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.

From Homeless to Hope: How Nature & Community Transforms Lives

Posted on 5 December 20245 December 2024 by Marc Ford

In a world bustling with concrete jungles and more and more digital distractions, the transformative power of nature therapy and community support can shine a hopeful light on young adults grappling with trauma, homelessness, and feelings of isolation. Green spaces offer some sanctuary, a place where the troubled mind can find solace, and where youth empowerment takes root in that fertile ground of mental health and trauma recovery. By weaving the threads of community engagement and social inclusion, we can create a tapestry of homelessness solutions that not only uplift young individuals but also enrich the entire community around them. In this exploration, we’ll uncover how these natural havens and collective efforts nurture wellbeing, inspiring laughter, hope, and a renewed sense of belonging. Join us as we journey through the verdant paths of nature therapy and the heart warming embrace of community support, illustrating how together, we can transform lives.

Healing Power of Green Spaces

Transformative Nature Therapy

Nature therapy offers a rejuvenating escape from the chaos of urban life, providing a sanctuary for young adults facing trauma and homelessness. Spending time in green spaces can significantly boost mental health, promoting feelings of peace and relaxation. We all know it and these natural environments act as a catalyst for trauma recovery by encouraging introspection and emotional healing. Young people who engage with nature are often empowered to find new perspectives on their challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Programs focused on nature therapy often incorporate activities like gardening, hiking, or simply spending time in parks and quiet gardens, which can lead to improved wellbeing and resilience. By immersing in the tranquility of nature, individuals can experience a reduction in stress and anxiety, setting the stage for long-term recovery and empowerment. Community support and social inclusion further enhance the impact of these experiences, creating a network of care and understanding.

Youth Empowerment Through Nature

Green spaces play a pivotal role in youth empowerment, offering young adults a platform to rebuild confidence and gain new skills. Engaging with nature encourages autonomy and decision-making, vital components of personal growth and self-esteem. Activities such as community gardening or conservation projects not only foster a sense of responsibility but also promote social inclusion, as they often require teamwork and collaboration. These experiences can bridge gaps between diverse groups, fostering community engagement and understanding. As young people connect with nature, they’re also more likely to develop an appreciation for their environment, instilling a sense of stewardship and care for the planet. This empowerment extends beyond the individual, inspiring community-wide initiatives that address homelessness solutions and promote mental health. By nurturing leadership skills and resilience, nature empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to their communities, paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

The impact of green spaces on mental health and wellbeing is profound, offering a natural refuge that promotes healing and relaxation. For young adults dealing with the aftermath of trauma or the instability of homelessness, these spaces provide a much-needed respite from the pressures of daily life. The calming effect of nature can lead to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, creating a foundation for lasting trauma recovery. Regular exposure to natural environments has been shown to enhance mood, increase feelings of happiness, and improve overall life satisfaction. Additionally, these spaces encourage physical activity, which is closely linked to improved mental health outcomes. Community support initiatives that incorporate nature therapy can create a supportive network that bolsters individuals’ efforts to achieve mental wellness. By integrating nature into daily routines, young people can cultivate a balanced, healthier lifestyle that nurtures their mental resilience and enhances their overall sense of wellbeing.

Community Support and Social Inclusion

Trauma Recovery and Community Engagement

Trauma recovery is often a challenging journey, but community support and engagement can make a significant difference. By fostering environments that encourage social inclusion, communities can create safe spaces where individuals feel valued and understood. These supportive networks provide the foundation for emotional healing, helping young adults rebuild their lives after experiencing trauma or homelessness. Activities that promote community engagement, such as group workshops or volunteering, offer individuals a sense of purpose and connection. As participants collaborate on shared goals, they develop a network of allies who understand their struggles and celebrate their progress. This sense of belonging is crucial for overcoming feelings of isolation and despair. Moreover, engaged communities are more likely to develop effective homelessness solutions, addressing the root causes of vulnerability. By nurturing an inclusive atmosphere, we can empower individuals to take charge of their recovery, contributing to the overall health and vitality of their community.

Homelessness Solutions through Support Networks

Support networks are crucial in developing effective homelessness solutions, offering a lifeline to individuals in need. (We should know…we’ve been around 130 odd years doing it!) These networks provide more than just immediate relief; they create pathways for long-term stability and empowerment. By connecting young adults with resources such as housing assistance, job training, and mental health services, support networks address the multi-faceted challenges of homelessness. Community engagement plays a vital role, as local organizations and volunteers come together to offer guidance, mentorship, and friendship. This collective effort helps individuals build resilience and regain confidence, essential components in overcoming adversity. Social inclusion initiatives further bolster these efforts by fostering environments where everyone feels welcome and valued. By working collaboratively, communities can devise innovative solutions tailored to their unique challenges, helping to break the cycle of homelessness. Through these compassionate and coordinated efforts, support networks transform lives, providing hope and a sense of belonging for those seeking a fresh start.

Strengthening Bonds and Building Hope

Building strong community bonds is essential for fostering hope and resilience among individuals facing homelessness and trauma. By creating opportunities for social inclusion, communities can help individuals form meaningful connections that offer emotional support and encouragement. Activities such as community events, shared meals, and group projects bring people together, breaking down barriers and promoting understanding. These interactions build trust and camaraderie, essential elements for healing and personal growth. As individuals experience a sense of belonging, they are more likely to engage with and contribute to their community, further strengthening these bonds. This collective sense of purpose not only uplifts individuals but also enriches the community as a whole. By focusing on inclusivity and support, communities can inspire hope and create a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In this way, community support becomes a powerful tool for transformation, helping individuals to overcome obstacles and envision a brighter future.

If you feel in any way, that you could donate to our own ‘Roots to Resilience’ Project, taking a piece of waste land and making it into an inspiring garden then follow the link here: ymcaleics.org.uk/the-big-give