YMCA Eastbourne and Hailsham
144 years
supporting children & young people in Eastbourne and local communities.
111 young people
given a safe home every night.
10,273
children and young people supported across Sussex.
Preventing youth homelessness in Eastbourne
Vulnerable children and young people have never been more at risk. We provide vital services so that young people in Eastbourne and Hailsham, who may have had a difficult start in life, can create a brighter future.
Our impact in Eastbourne and Halisham
In Eastbourne and Hailsham we provide a range of services for children and young people, 16 to 25, which act as a 'safety-net' to catch those at risk. From providing youth clubs and support & advice, to giving a home to those who are in crisis and facing homelessness, we change lives.
Children and young people facing homelessness in Eastbourne or Hailsham can find a safe, supportive home with us. Our 24 hour supported housing is so much more than 'just a room'. We provide wraparound support so that our residents can get the emotional support, life skills and help back into education, training or employment to enable them to 'move on' successfully to independence. Our dedicated staff (and volunteers) help young people develop the tools they need to reach their full potential.
More information about our services
- For information on our housing, including referral click here.
- For support and advice click here.
- For mental health support click here.
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.
Meet some of the team
Our staff provide young people with the support they need to reach their full potential. We wouldn't be able to transform young lives without them. Here is what some of our staff, past and present, have to say about their job.
Other services for young people at risk
Mental Health Support
Our YMCA Dialogue has been delivering counselling and therapy to children and young people since 1994.
Helping young people stay safe
- Our YMCA WiSE supports young people around staying safe in relationships, online and in the community.
How you can help
Contact information for housing advice
We run two 24 hour supported housing projects in the area, Eastbourne Foyer and Grove House, for young people between the ages of 16 and 25.
McKendrick House in Eastbourne and Newton Park in Hailsham are a 'Pathway 2 Move On Accommodation' for young people who need less support and are moving towards independent living.
We also manage several 'Transitional Properties' across Eastbourne, Hailsham and Rother for young people who are capable of managing a tenancy and are ready for independent living. These young people still have access to a key worker to provide housing related support.
If you are a young person at risk, or have concerns about someone, contact us through the following;
- Enquiries relating to accommodation can be directed to [email protected] or 01323 735618
- Referrals for supported accommodation to be made through the single allocation point at [email protected]
- Enquiries and referrals for transitional housing to be directed to [email protected]
For more information about our supported housing click here
How our work helps
Dylan’s story
Dylan ran away from home when he was 14 and got involved with drugs to help him cope but ended up in hospital after suffering from a nervous breakdown.
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.
Nathan’s story
Nathan was struggling with his family relationships and mental health after coming out to his family at 15. Our Youth Advice Service found him specialist help.
