Two YMCAs merge to create a stronger organisation

The merger of two YMCAs will create a stronger charitable organisation delivering services across Sussex and Surrey to over 10,000 young people.

Sussex Central YMCA merged with Guildford YMCA in April to create YMCA DownsLink Group. The merger of these two YMCAs has created a stronger and more robust organisation that can offer extended and improved services to local children, young people and their families.

Penelope Thompson, Chief Executive of Brighton & Hove City Council, said: “Sussex Central YMCA has worked closely with the City Council for a number of years to meet the needs of young people in the City.

“We understand as YMCA DownsLink Group they will bring additional resources and experience to their local services, and we look forward to working together in the future to create better opportunities for our young people.”

Whilst focusing on young people experiencing problems of one sort or another, YMCA DownsLink Group believes all young people deserve good services that meet their needs. The charity will actively involve young people and their families in the design, delivery and assessment of their services.

Operating across the three counties of East Sussex, West Sussex and Surrey, YMCA DownsLink Group will support over 10,000 young people each year. The YMCA delivers services through 425 units of supported housing across 13 locations, 3 counselling centres and 13 youth and advice centres and also offers services in local schools and community care settings and work opportunities through a social enterprise operation.

YMCA DownsLink Group is committed to retaining local identities and maintaining current relationships and partnerships. The new organisation will continue to deliver its services from key centres in five locations – Brighton & Hove, Guildford, Lewes, Horsham and Crawley.

David Standing, CEO for YMCA DownsLink Group, said: “This merger provides an exciting opportunity to bring together two strong YMCAs, enabling us to increase the scope and range of services we offer young people who may need support and help to deal with problems they are facing. We will keep our local focus, working closely with local authorities, NHS partners and other voluntary organisations.”