New Parliamentary Patron for YMCA

YMCA Derbyshire is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine Atkinson, Labour MP for Derby North, as a Parliamentary Patron.

The Parliamentary Patron programme creates advocates for both the national and regional YMCAs within parliament.

Their role is to make sure that legislation captures the expertise and recommendations that the oldest youth charity in the world has to share – making sure that young people are supported to belong, contribute and thrive by government policy.

Gillian Sewell, CEO of YMCA Derbyshire, made the presentation to Catherine at the new Padley Community Hub on Parcel Terrace in Derby, which is in Catherine’s constituency.

The new Hub opened in December 2024 and is evolving into a vibrant centre, delivering a variety of services and support to individuals and families at risk of experiencing homelessness and/or poverty.

Catherine Atkinson MP said: “Week in, week out, YMCA Derbyshire continues to build on decades of vital work supporting local young people and vulnerable adults, providing housing, training, and opportunities to help them thrive.

I’ve seen firsthand how their unwavering commitment to empowering communities makes a real difference in transforming lives for the better.”

Gillian Sewell, YMCA Derbyshire CEO said, “I am delighted that Catherine will be representing the vital work that our YMCA does in parliament. We are thrilled to have her on board to support our cause, and to raise awareness of the challenges that our young people and communities face in Derby today.”