New YMCA campus in Northampton could support 200 young people a year

YMCA South Midlands has revealed proposals for the Northampton facility as a key part of its new five-year strategy, called Here for Good.

The charity wants to replicate its successful Central Milton Keynes campus model in Northampton, providing accommodation and support for young people.

The strategy was unveiled at Christ the Cornerstone Church on Friday, September 18, with 130 supporters, partners, businesses and members of the community attending.

It sets out six priorities for the next five years, including expanding the campus model, growing the charity's education offer and launching accommodation specifically for 16 and 17-year-olds.

YMCA South Midlands also wants to increase the number of affordable homes available to working young people, strengthen its financial sustainability and ensure young people's voices are heard.

Alongside its Northampton plans, the charity intends to provide another 90 affordable homes for employed young people in Milton Keynes.

Guests at the launch heard from chair Jenny Walker, trustee and former resident Liz Harvey and chief executive Simon Green.

Simon said: “Here for Good is about building on everything we have learned from working alongside young people and looking confidently towards what comes next.

“Our ambitions are significant, but they are rooted in what young people tell us they need: safe and affordable homes, access to education and employment, the right support and the opportunity to have their voices heard.

“We cannot achieve this alone, and we look forward to working with businesses, partners, supporters and communities across the South Midlands to create more opportunities for young people.”