YMCA Response to the Government’s Homelessness Strategy

Denise Hatton, Chief Executive, YMCA England & Wales said:

“Today’s announcement is a key juncture in the national effort to end homelessness. YMCA has long called for a coordinated, preventive approach to tackling this crisis, and we strongly welcome this new cross-government plan, backed by £3.5 billion in investment. The voices of people with lived experience, alongside frontline organisations, are clearly reflected in this strategy, and that is essential for meaningful, lasting change.

“Across England and Wales, YMCA provides more than 10,000 beds each night and supports over 20,000 people each year, so we see every day the transformational impact of safe, stable housing. Measures to boost prevention, strengthen collaboration between public services, and increase good-quality temporary accommodation will make a real difference.

“We commend the ambition to halve long-term rough sleeping, and welcome continued reform of the private rented sector and investment in supported housing. What matters now is delivery. Local authorities, charities, and communities must be equipped and empowered to implement this plan.

“YMCA will continue to work with government and partners to ensure homelessness comes to an end, and that every young person has the safe home they need to thrive.”