Where We Work - YMCA DownsLink Group

Where we work

We've been preventing children and young people from facing crisis and supporting them to achieve their potential across Sussex and Surrey for 175 years.

We prevent youth homelessness by providing supported accommodation alongside the wraparound support they need. We give children and young people easy access to support and advice services when they need them. We provide children, young people and families with a range of mental health and emotional wellbeing services

Find out more about our 3 main areas of work; Accommodation, support & advice, and counselling.

Find out more about our services

Helping young people stay safe from sexual exploitation

How you can help

Give £5 a month

Provide vital basics

Gift a young person a warm welcome. Help us provide homely touches such as a toothbrush, clean bedding, and access to hot food.

Help them feel at home.

Give £12 a month

Room Sponsor (40p per day)

Your Room Sponsorship will give a young person near you, a safe, stable home, so they can begin their journey to independence.

Give them the first step to a brighter future.

Give £36 a month

One to one support

Many of our homeless young people have experienced trauma. Your donation will help pay for our caring support staff.

Help rebuild their trust.

Young People's Stories

Jack's Story

Jack’s story

Jack came out as gay when he was 15. His family struggled to accept it and it caused tension and arguments at home. The situation came to a head when Jack was 16. After a huge row his Dad threw him out.
Image of young woman smiling with brown hair, wearing a yellow tshirt.

Maya’s story

Maya’s childhood was filled with instability as she constantly moved around the country. She found a home in our supported accommodation when she was just 16 and started to build up her life skills and create some consistency with our support.
Poppy's story

Poppy’s Story

Poppy didn’t realise she was being subjected to sexual exploitation. Spending time with a YMCA WiSE project worker opened her eyes to the reality of her situation.
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YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by and faithful to our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive and energising communities, where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.

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