(Photo: YMCA Exeter)
In a collaborative effort to address youth homelessness, YMCA Exeter and YMCA South Devon have joined forces with Torbay Council to introduce new housing solutions in Paignton. These eight newly constructed homes are designed to support local youths transitioning from foster care and council-supported accommodations.
The initiative aims to equip residents with essential “independent living skills,” fostering a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and community engagement. Gareth Sorsby, Joint CEO of YMCA Exeter, emphasized the critical need for such projects in Torbay, highlighting the benefits of providing young people with stable homes and support systems.
“There is an urgent need for move-on accommodation in Torbay so that local young people can have a home in their own area and receive the support they need, enabling them to develop further and begin contributing to the local economy and society,” Sorsby stated.
The urgency of addressing youth homelessness is underscored by alarming figures from Centre Point, which reports that 118,000 young people in Britain are at risk of homelessness by 2024. This crisis comes with an estimated annual cost of £8.5 billion, factoring in lost productivity, crime, and healthcare expenses.
Torbay has been particularly affected, experiencing a 180 percent surge in the number of 18 to 25-year-olds on the Housing Options waiting list, many of whom reside in temporary accommodations like B&Bs. These individuals are in dire need of permanent housing solutions.
Beyond providing homes, YMCA Exeter is committed to offering support through volunteering and training programs, aiming to unlock the potential of these young individuals. Sorsby noted the importance of envisioning a future where they can thrive, citing a “100% success rate” in helping young people transition into long-term tenancies through their Supported Housing Pathway in Exeter.
“The move-on experience is essential for each young person, providing a sense of achievement and progression,” Sorsby added, underscoring the transformative impact of stable housing and comprehensive support.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
