On Friday, 6th November, Angela Richardson, MP for Guildford, held a virtual meeting with Paul Napthine, Head of YMCA Guildford to discuss the work the charity is doing locally.
YMCA has had a presence in Guildford since at least 1870 and has been operating out of their Centre in Bridge Street for over 25 years. They provide a range of services including student accommodation, supported accommodation, and counselling.
YMCA is the largest and oldest youth movement in the world, operating in 120 countries and providing vital services for over 65 million people. YMCA DownsLink Group is a formation of local YMCAs across Sussex and Surrey. Children, young people and families are at the heart of YMCA DownsLink Group, with a particular focus on the needs of young people who find themselves on the fringes of society and need support.
Angela Richardson MP said:
‘It was a pleasure to meet Paul Napthine, Head of YMCA Guildford and to hear about the invaluable work that is being done to support young people who find themselves on the fringes of society.’
‘It is a great comfort to know that there are organisations like YMCA Guildford that provide a place for young people to feel safe through accommodation, support and advice, counselling and mediation that will lead to better life chances and a more positive future.’
“Whilst it wasn’t possible to visit the YMCA Guildford due to current Covid-19 restrictions, I look forward to a future visit, to see first-hand the fantastic work being done and to meet some of the young people they support.”