Kirsty Rose

“Why don’t they just get a job?”

It’s a phrase too often said when young people are facing homelessness — a phrase rooted in misunderstanding, and one that ignores the complex barriers these individuals face every day. At YMCA Norfolk, we know the truth: most young people experiencing homelessness would love nothing more than a job, a stable life, and the chance to move forward. But for many, the odds are stacked against them long before they even begin.

The Hidden Barriers

Getting a job isn’t just about filling out an application. Most employers require:

• A fixed address
• A contact number or email
• Transport to and from work
• Clean clothes for interviews
• Confidence to speak about your experience and skills
• Support to even believe you’re worthy of the opportunity

For a young person sofa-surfing, sleeping in a tent, or staying in temporary accommodation, these things aren’t a given — they’re a luxury. Add in mental health challenges, lack of support from family, or past trauma, and it becomes even clearer why “just getting a job” isn’t a quick fix.

Building the Foundations First

That’s why at YMCA Norfolk, we don’t just offer housing — we provide wraparound support that helps young people rebuild their lives. One of the most impactful projects we offer is Life Ready, Work Ready.

Through this programme, young people are supported to:

• Build life skills like cooking, budgeting and time management
• Gain confidence through group work and mentorship
• Learn employability skills, from CV writing to interview prep
• Explore hobbies and passions to build self-esteem and motivation

It’s not just about getting a job — it’s about getting ready for life.

Real People, Real Change

We’ve seen young people arrive with nothing but a small backpack and leave with qualifications, full-time work, and their own tenancy. All they needed was the right support, someone to believe in them, and a chance to reset.

Homelessness shouldn’t mean hopelessness.

So next time you hear someone say, “just get a job,” remind them of what it really takes — and how together, through compassion and understanding, we can help build a future that every young person deserves.

Learn more about our work and read real stories from young people we’ve supported:
https://www.ymcanorfolk.org/case-studies

And if you’d like to support our Life Ready, Work Ready programme or get involved, visit:
https://www.ymcanorfolk.org

Emma Freeman, a former YMCA Norfolk resident and now a successful homeowner and professional, is preparing to take on a breathtaking challenge in support of the charity that changed her life. On 25th June 2025, Emma will be skydiving from 13,000 feet to raise vital funds for YMCA Norfolk, a charity close to her heart.

Emma’s story is one of strength and transformation. At 17, she found herself homeless just as she was about to sit her A-Levels. It was YMCA Norfolk that stepped in, securing her supported lodgings and helping her apply for the benefits she needed to stay in education and survive.

“Without YMCA Norfolk, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Emma shared. “They gave me the stability and support I needed at the most critical time in my life. I’ve since built a great career, bought my own home, and now I want to give something back.”

Emma, who now works at Aviva, is paying for the skydive herself—ensuring 100% of donations go directly to YMCA Norfolk.

YMCA Norfolk, like many charities, continues to face enormous pressures due to over a decade of austerity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Funds raised by Emma will help support more young people facing homelessness across Norfolk—offering them the same lifeline she once received.

“Charities like YMCA Norfolk are struggling more than ever,” Emma said. “I want to do what I can to ensure others have the same chance I had.” Support Emma’s skydive and help transform young lives by donating here:
https://gofund.me/cf548f98

YMCA Norfolk is proud to announce that its inspirational ambassador, Andrew Hadley, will be taking on a phenomenal 104-mile walk along the Norfolk Coastal Path this June — all to raise vital funds for young people experiencing homelessness.

Starting on Saturday 1st June at YMCA Community Housing in King’s Lynn, Andrew will walk the length of the stunning Norfolk coast, finishing on Wednesday 11th June in Hunstanton. At 72 years old, Andrew is no stranger to a challenge — and his determination to support young people is stronger than ever.

This ten-day trek will take Andrew through some of Norfolk’s most scenic locations, as he highlights the urgent need to support vulnerable young people and raise awareness around youth homelessness. So far, he has already raised an incredible £20,000 and hopes to hit £25,000 by the time he crosses the finish line.

“This isn’t just a walk,” says Andrew. “It’s a way to make a difference — to give young people in Norfolk the chance to build a better future. YMCA Norfolk changes lives, and I want to do my bit to support their work.”

YMCA Norfolk provides housing, support, training and wellbeing services to young people across the county. Fundraising efforts like Andrew’s ensure that they can continue to provide life-changing opportunities for those most in need.

Donations can be made at – JustGiving Andrew Hadley
www.justgiving.com/page/100-norfolk-coastal-walk

YMCA Norfolk would like to invite the public to follow Andrew’s journey, cheer him on along the way, and help spread the word. Every step he takes is a step closer to ending youth homelessness.

When we picture homelessness, our minds often conjure images influenced by stigma and assumptions: substance misuse, poor choices, or even a refusal to work. But the reality of youth homelessness is far more complex — and far less understood.

At YMCA Norfolk, we know that the reasons young people find themselves without a home are rarely straightforward. It’s not about failure — it’s about circumstance. Family breakdown is one of the leading causes of youth homelessness.

Many young people are forced to leave home due to abuse, neglect, conflict, or because their families simply can’t afford to house them anymore. Some have grown up in the care system, only to find themselves with nowhere to go when they reach 18. Others may be escaping domestic violence, struggling with their mental health, or coming to terms with their identity in an unsupportive environment.

The stories behind homelessness are personal, painful, and varied. That’s why YMCA Norfolk is here — to provide not just a roof, but a foundation for young people to rebuild their lives.

We offer supported accommodation, wraparound care, and tailored support plans that focus on personal development, education, and employability. Our work is centred around compassion, not judgement. Every young person deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of where they’ve come from.

We also work with local communities to shift the narrative. We challenge stereotypes and raise awareness that youth homelessness isn’t always visible — it can mean sofa surfing, staying in unsafe environments, or moving from place to place without security. It can happen to anyone.

By supporting YMCA Norfolk, you’re helping us break the cycle. You’re helping young people regain their dignity, rebuild their confidence, and restore their hope.

Let’s look beyond the assumptions. Let’s see the person, not the problem.
Together, we can make youth homelessness something we all understand — and something we can all help to end.

We need you!

YMCA Norfolk is calling on thrill-seekers, adrenaline junkies, and fundraisers alike to take part in our 2025 Charity Abseil Challenge, an exciting event taking place on Saturday 19th July at The Forum in Norwich. Participants will have the unique opportunity to abseil down one of the city’s most iconic buildings while raising crucial funds to support young people facing homelessness.

With an entry fee of just £25, participants are asked to commit to a minimum fundraising target of £100—every penny of which goes towards YMCA Norfolk’s mission of providing safe housing, essential support, and life-changing opportunities for young people in need.

Why Take the Leap?

The abseil challenge isn’t just about the thrill of descending The Forum’s towering façade; it’s about making a real impact. Youth homelessness is on the rise, and YMCA Norfolk is at the forefront of offering practical solutions, from emergency accommodation to long-term housing and personal development programs.

“Every year, we support hundreds of young people who have nowhere else to turn. This event gives people a chance to challenge themselves while helping us provide the support they desperately need,” said Kirsty Rose – Marketing & Fundraising Officer at YMCA Norfolk.

A Challenge for All

Whether you’re looking to conquer a fear of heights, complete a bucket list challenge, or raise money for a cause close to your heart, this event is open to all. No prior experience is necessary—just a sense of adventure and a passion for making a difference.

Businesses, groups, and individuals are all encouraged to sign up. Companies looking for a team-building challenge or a way to fulfil corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals can take part as a group.

Sign Up Today

Spaces for the YMCA Norfolk Charity Abseil are limited, so don’t miss your chance to take part in this unforgettable experience.

Event Date: Saturday 19th July 2025
Location: The Forum, Norwich
Entry Fee: £25
Fundraising Target: £100

Register now and #DareToDescend: Abseil to Transform Young Lives for YMCA Norfolk | YMCA Norfolk (Powered by Donorbox)