Charities join forces to help people facing homelessness

YMCA Derbyshire and Padley Group have officially joined forces to provide a comprehensive range of services to people facing homeless and poverty.

The proposal to merge was first announced back in May – and now, following talks between the two organisations, the merger has been successfully completed.

As part of the merger, the name of the Padley Group has changed to Padley@‌YMCA Derbyshire.

The combined organisation will offer a host of services for those facing homelessness and poverty, including skills development, access to food and nutritional advice, wellbeing services, volunteering and signposting to healthcare, welfare and housing.

In a statement, Padley Group said: “Padley@YMCA Derbyshire has the strength and sustainability needed to continue our vision to support and empower those affected by homelessness and poverty to improve their lives.

“Padley@YMCA Derbyshire will strengthen the services that both charities offer, giving more opportunities for individuals accessing their provisions to gain further support and move along their positive pathways.

“The combined strengths will make a more resilient and effective contribution to the city’s and county’s strategies for supporting individuals and communities experiencing homelessness and poverty.”

As part of the merger, Padley@YMCA Derbyshire will have a new and improved ‘community hub’ in early 2024, where it will continue the activities it currently provides but also develop and grow its services with the support of YMCA Derbyshire’s Youth and Community team.

Programmes and activities will include living skills workshops, tenancy sustainability, DIY classes, horticulture, employability preparation, volunteering programmes, diversionary activities and therapeutic counselling.

In terms of accommodation, as a social housing provider itself, YMCA Derbyshire will incorporate the 18 Padley Pathways flats into its portfolio and continue to support residents through a range of programmes and individual personalised plans.

Speaking about the merger back in May, Gillian Sewell, chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, said: “Padley Group is one of the most respected charities in our local area.

“We will be working together to develop the housing and support offer from both organisations.

“Many of those we serve benefit from the support of both organisations.

“It is always our aim to provide as much assistance as we can for our communities with limited resources, while keeping those who use our services at the centre of all our decisions.

“As we move forward, we also want to work with other members of the Derby and Derbyshire business community to address the wider spread issues of poverty in the city and county to work towards preventing homelessness.”