A new two-year partnership between YMCA and Cadent has recently started which will provide much-needed support to vulnerable communities across England that are at risk of fuel poverty, loneliness and isolation and protect against exposure to carbon monoxide.
As the cost of living crisis continues to take its toll, this partnership will help provide greater support to those who need it most. YMCA’s research into the true cost of living for those in supported housing showed that the health, wellbeing and future prospects of young people were at risk.
Cadent has awarded a grant to YMCA England & Wales from Ofgem’s Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) to lead a multi-dimensional project which will be delivered to more than 20 local YMCAs to support many thousands of people.
The Safe and Well Communities Project will enhance the existing support YMCA provides to young people and families through its youth services, supported housing and community food banks – as well as reaching the wider YMCA community.
Cadent will provide training for YMCA Housing Workers, empowering them to support those living in supported housing with practical advice on using energy more efficiently and making the most of their money, alongside how to get support and stay safe when they move on from YMCA to independent living.
YMCA will also be running slow cooking workshops for more than 10,000 young people with slow cookers provided by Cadent for use in youth centres and housing, promoting healthy eating on a budget.
Phil Burrows, Head of Customer Vulnerability Delivery, said:
“Cadent is proud to announce its partnership with YMCA England & Wales. We are working collaboratively to ensure that young people and communities receive further support over the coming years. By working together, we can provide knowledge and tools to thousands of people living in vulnerable situations, keeping them safe, warm and connected.”
Lanner Feltham, Head of Strategic Partnerships at YMCA England & Wales, added:
“YMCA are pleased to be teaming up with Cadent to extend and enhance the support we provide to young people and communities. Through our partnership, we will be able to reach thousands of people with the knowledge and tools that will help them through the cost of living crisis and beyond, ensuring we are here for our communities when they need us the most.”
YMCAs operate in 688 different communities across England and Wales, impacting the lives of more than 375,000 people’s lives every year, ensuring young people have opportunities to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.
