What we do
We change lives. We give young people the chance to fulfil their potential, whatever challenges they face
We prevent youth homelessness by providing young people with a safe place to live
Our support and advice services aim to prevent young people from facing crisis
We provide a range of counselling services to support young peoples' mental health
YMCA DownsLink Group is a charity that works to prevent young people from reaching crisis across Sussex and Surrey. We support young people, at a crucial stage in their lives, so that they can fulfil their potential.
Our local YMCA's can be found in Brighton & Hove, Crawley, Eastbourne & Hailsham, Guildford, Hastings, Horsham and Worthing.
Accommodation at YMCA DownsLink Group
We offer a variety of accommodation throughout Sussex and Guildford. Every night give a home to more than 650 young people, who are homeless or, at risk of homelessness. On average a young person will stay with us for two years.
Our 'More than a Room' model of supported accommodation aims to equip young people with the skills and support needed to move on to independent living. This is achieved through a range of housing-related support services.
Our accommodation includes 24 hour staffed services, projects with daytime support staff, transitional housing schemes with visiting support, and, 'Move On' accommodation for those ready for independent living.
Support & Advice at YMCA DownsLink Group
YMCA DownsLink Group provides a wide range of support and advice services to young people in Sussex and Surrey. We provide emotional and practical support for young people aged 11-25.
We have two Youth Advice Centres in Brighton & Hove, and Crawley (YAC) and a dedicated project for any young person experiencing or at risk of sexual exploitation (YMCA WiSE).
Counselling at YMCA DownsLink Group
We are committed to supporting the mental health of young people in our local community by offering professional counselling and therapy. We are the largest provider of counselling to schools in Sussex as well as providing community counselling services. We also have a digital platform for young people looking for self-help support around some common issues.
Read young people's stories
Dee’s story
Dee dreams of being a champion. She wants to represent Britain as part of the GB boxing team. Despite facing challenges as a teenager, with our support, she’s thriving and is working hard to turn her dreams into reality. Â
Rukshi’s story
Rukshi was left homeless at 20 and lost custody of her daughter during a couple of difficult years. She’s now living in our 24 hour supported accommodation and has begun to rebuild her life and her relationship with her daughter.
Nader’s story
Nader left his home country when he was just 14 and after a difficult journey he arrived in the UK as an unaccompanied asylum seeking child. Nader was given a home at YMCA DownsLink Group and was supported to learn English, attend college and take part in lots of activities.
