YMCA Norfolk Youth Ambassador Seb, recently joined fellow Youth Ambassador Jess from YMCA North Staffordshire on a visit to Downing Street, where they delivered an open letter to the Prime Minister on behalf of young people supported by YMCA services across the country.
The letter, written by YMCA resident Katie, calls on the Government to back YMCA’s ambitious vision of creating 10,000 new supported homes for young people. More than 1,400 YMCA supporters added their names to the campaign, highlighting the urgent need for safe and affordable housing for young people facing homelessness.
After making their way through the famous black doors of Number 10, Seb and Jess handed the letter to Downing Street staff. While neither the Prime Minister nor the well-known resident Larry the Cat were available to receive it in person, YMCA hopes the message will lead to meaningful action in the months ahead.
For Katie, who lives in YMCA affordable accommodation in Milton Keynes, the campaign is deeply personal. Having experienced first-hand the difference stable housing can make, she wanted to ensure the voices of young people were heard at the highest level. Sadly, many young people across the UK are still without a safe place to call home.
Reflecting on the experience, Seb said:
“It was so important to hand in Katie’s open letter, as heartbreakingly, too many young people are facing homelessness, preventing them from accessing the opportunities they deserve and building the stability and future that everyone should have.”
While the letter may have been handed in, the campaigning doesn’t stop here. Across the UK, YMCA continues to work with young people, communities and decision-makers to tackle youth homelessness and create more supported housing opportunities. Together, we can help ensure that every young person has the foundation they need to build a brighter future.
If you, or anyone you know, is looking for housing support, visit Accommodation – YMCA Norfolk to find out more on how we can help.
