Our 2024 Impact Report is now available to read online!
Packed with first-hand experiences from people we have supported and those who’ve supported us, take a 5-minute tea break and read about our charitable projects in East Surrey.
A huge thank you to everyone who told us their stories and to all our supporters and partners.
This review looks back on the developments and highlights between 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024 and beyond up to the time of going to press.
Ian Burks, CEO, YMCA East Surrey – introducing the 2024 Impact Report
“We are now at the mid-point of our five-year strategy and thanks to our excellent senior leadership team and dedicated staff we have made great progress. Key achievements include a new Families First partnership with Surrey County Council to support over 800 families across East Surrey, record levels of participation across our health and wellbeing programme and an extension of short breaks, emotional wellbeing and mental health services to meet the growing needs of young people in our communities.
One of our most urgent priorities is to address the acute housing issues facing young people and in July 2024, thanks to our statutory and charitable partners, (and our intrepid challenge fundraisers) we were able to open a new semi-independent housing scheme in Redhill. This six-bedroomed property will house and support those at risk of homelessness for many years to come. We are now actively looking to partner with Boroughs and Districts across Surrey to develop similar projects that can give hope to young people at risk. The YMCA gained Ofsted registration earlier this year to continue offering vital housing and support for 16 and 17 years olds, who are looked after, or leaving care.
In June we merged with the Land and City Families Trust (LCFT) to secure the future of the Old Pheasantry and enable greater numbers of children and young people to benefit from residential experiences and learn about the great outdoors. This exciting partnership was only possible thanks to the foresight of LCFT Trustees, who have invested time and energy into making the Old Pheasantry such a success.
It is an exciting time for the YMCA as we develop and grow but we are also aware of the increasing challenges facing many in our communities. The need for the YMCA is at a high point but we are
confident that with our excellent team of staff, volunteers and trustees, along with our supportive partners and funders, we can continue to make a positive difference within East Surrey.”
You can read more from Ian Burks in the Annual Review foreword by downloading or checking out the digital version.
