Transformative YMCA campaign earns national honour

An impactful campaign from YMCA Sutton Coldfield to promote independent living skills has earned a top award.

YMCA Sutton Coldfield’s initiative ‘Resident Engagement – Building Independent Living Skills’ won Best Housing Project of the Year Award at the Youth Matters Awards.

This honour recognises the dedication, collaboration and transformative impact of campaign on young people and the wider community.

“‘Resident Engagement – Building Independent Living Skills’ exemplifies the spirit of our YMCA community,” said Joy Scott-Thompson, CEO of YMCA Sutton Coldfield.

"This project was born out of a vision to uplift, inspire, and transform, and we are incredibly honoured to see it recognised on a national level.

“This award is a testament to the dedication of our team, our volunteers, and every person who supported this initiative from the very beginning.”

Throughout its journey, ‘Resident Engagement – Building Independent Living Skills’ has delivered a series of impactful stories, including enhanced resident engagement and trust building initiatives, building relationships with the community and reducing complaints as well as timely interventions and lowered eviction rates.

These efforts have not only changed individual lives but have also strengthened the YMCA’s commitment to fostering positive change within the community.

Parveen Akhtar, housing service manager, said: “It’s a great honour to be awarded Housing Project of the Year.

“This recognises and celebrates the work and commitment our team has had over the past 12 months to providing individualised support to all of our residents on their journey towards independence.”

The Youth Matters Awards celebrates young people, staff, volunteers and projects that redefine the boundaries of achievement and community-driven transformation.

The ceremony was held at City Central at the HAC in London and was hosted by reality TV star Scarlett Moffatt.