YMCA Statement in Response to Spending Review

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

“YMCA welcomes the Government’s investment in social and affordable housing. Access to affordable housing remains one of the most significant barriers facing the young people we support. However, we need to see further reforms to make it easier for smaller and charitable providers like YMCA to play our whole part in increasing housing supply.

“We’re pleased to see £130 million allocated from the Dormant Assets Scheme to support activities and opportunities for young people, particularly in disadvantaged communities. These kinds of programmes are vital in building skills, boosting confidence, and opening doors that might otherwise remain closed. However, these funds are ‘one off’ and our youth services urgently require sustained revenue investment to reverse the £1.1bn that has been taken out of youth services in the past decade. YMCA therefore eagerly awaits the publication of the National Youth Strategy in a few months to further understand the Government’s direction for youth services”

“Today’s budget also includes additional funding to help one million young people get into education, apprenticeships, and training – a welcome move. YMCA knows from experience that quality learning and employment pathways are key to young people’s long-term success.

“YMCA strongly  supports expanding mental health support in schools, which must be accessible, timely and well-resourced. Mental health remains one of the top concerns for young people, and access to early help is critical in preventing more serious challenges later on.

“Finally, the £370 million for school-based nurseries is a positive step to improve access for families. But the government must also consider the health of the early years sector delivered by voluntary providers like YMCA, who support children facing multiple challenges while the workforce itself struggles. Many settings remain at risk due to chronic underfunding, rising employer costs and increasing wage pressures.

“YMCA stands ready to work with government to ensure this investment delivers lasting impact for young people, families and communities.”