Well done Boyden! Celebrating a young YMCA resident’s achievements
Boyden came to stay YMCA Robin Hood Group in April 2023. Like many young people experiencing homelessness, this was following a family breakdown and a period of sofa surfing. His confidence was very low, but he wanted to develop new skills, to improve his reading and writing and start work. He wasn’t sure what to do, or even where to start.
Nikki Parr, Partnership and Pathway Manager at YMCA Robin Hood Group explains:
“We took time to understand what Boyden was interested in, what his barriers were and what opportunities would help and support him. We worked on budgeting, planning for the future, and what steps to take to achieve his goal. He started to improve his confidence and commenced with Inspire & Achieve where he started boxing – this really gave Boyden the confidence to do more! And, in May, Boyden commenced the Princes Trust Team Programme.
At the end of July Boyden progressed on from YMCA, being in a better place and moving back to live with his family. He completed the Team Programme and he started work at a food producer as an operative. At his YMCA celebration event, we could see the change in Boyden was incredible! He is confident, proud, and able to see a positive future.”
Claire from YMCA attended the event and said:
“I really enjoyed being part of today, a very emotional journey but truly inspirational.
Boydon has gained so much, from the start Boyden trusted in us with what was on offer so despite his barriers he grabbed it by the horns and loved it.”
Well done Boyden.
Learn more about supported housing YMCA provides for vulnerable young people and adults across Nottinghamshire and East Riding.