The YMCA would like to thank the event sponsor, Nicholas O'Hara Funeral Directors
#YMCAHousesTheHomeless
YMCA Bournemouth’s mission is to strive to enable people to develop their full potential in mind, body, and spirit. It creates supportive, inclusive, and energising communities where people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.
Our work with the homeless generates a ripple of positive effects by delivering multiple positive outcomes and benefiting diverse groups. By providing safe, stable accommodation and essential support, we not only help individuals in immediate need but also foster broader societal benefits.
Our intervention stabilizes the lives of homeless individuals, offering them security and a chance to rebuild. With a comprehensive 360-degree assessment and personalised support plan, we address their specific needs, promoting mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach helps individuals regain confidence and independence, facilitating their reintegration into society.
Jess became homeless after a mental health breakdown that resulted from a situation of ongoing domestic violence. After staying on a friend’s sofa, she was provided with temporary accommodation by the council and later by YMCA Bournemouth.
“Whilst at the YMCA I received twenty-four hour emotional support from staff who helped me work through serious issues around my physical and mental health,” says Jess. “I attended numerous YMCA Bournemouth organised activities, including residential trips, which helped me work on my social isolation and personal development. As a result, I was able to grow in strength and managed to develop a range of coping mechanisms.”
Jess successfully moved on to her own flat and since then has managed to keep her bills up to date, enjoy healthy relationships and avoid the unhealthy behaviours which were a problem in the past. She also enrolled on a counselling course with Open University, with a view to becoming a Counsellor so that she could help others.
“The staff at YMCA Bournemouth see the potential in everyone and manage to pull it out of you,” says Jess. “I wasn’t seen as a ‘let down’ or judged for my mistakes. I learnt that my behaviour doesn’t define me as a person."
"Without the continued support I received from staff during my time there, I don’t feel I’d be the person I am today."
If you have questions, or wish to take part - please contact the schools reception and ask to speak to the schools organiser.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
Lester Aldridge is YMCA Bournemouth's flagship Schools event partner for 2025
www.lesteraldridge.com/contact-us/bournemouth-solicitors
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