YMCA North Tyneside is excited to share our significant progress in providing safe and supportive accommodation for vulnerable individuals, through partnership with the Middleton Foundation on Molly’s Project. 

Headed by the Middleton Foundation, Molly’s project addresses the shortage of appropriate housing for individuals with learning disabilities and autism, through providing safe and supportive social housing for such individuals across the North East. 

We are proud to have partnered the Middleton Foundation on one property in particular, making a difference to the lives of 3 residents and their families, who have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are being well looked after in a safe environment. 

A family member of one resident at the property said, I’m extremely grateful to YMCA North Tyneside and The Middleton Foundation for their financial support, which has provided my brother with a secure place to live, hopefully into his old age. This has given me confidence that he is well cared for and happy. I’ve noticed how relaxed and content he is when I visit, and what a difference this new home has made to his life”.

Not only has the property made a profound impact on its residents’ lives, but the dedicated staff who support them in their new home.

“The people we support sleep a lot better at their new home, are more relaxed, with less risk of tripping on the stairs,said a support worker at the property. “One resident is really enjoying her room, which is decorated to her taste, and she loves using her ensuite shower. She is enjoying using the kitchen where she is supported to bake and has much more room to store her large collection of handbags”.

Building on the success of our first property, we are pleased to announce the completion of our second home in Hexham. This development is part of our ongoing commitment to provide safe and supportive living environments for vulnerable individuals across the region. 

For more information about Molly’s project, please contact lucy@themiddletonfoundation.org or joanne.mcnally@ymcanorthtyneside.org.

Additionally, to hear more about our other housing projects and facilities, and our impact in the lives of young people, please visit the link below.

Staff VS Young People Football Match

On Wednesday the 9th of April the football pitch at the Parks turned into a battleground—not of rivals, but of friendly fire as our North Shields Youth Group faced off against the YMCA Staff Team in what can only be described as a match for the ages (and possibly some ice packs).

Volunteer Case Study: Jacqui and Albie

The consistent support from our long-time volunteers Jacqui and Albie, has insured that our Community Meal initiative continues to be a success.

Case Study: Laurie’s Journey

Laurie’s journey with the YMCA began at the age of 12 with the aim to escape boredom and forge new friendships. The local YMCA youth group became a regular fixture in her week, providing a welcoming space and opportunities to connect with peers.

North Shields Youth Group

Launched in April 2024, our North Shields Youth Group is a direct response to the needs of local young people, made possible through valuable partnerships and funding. Situated in our central North Shields building, the group has quickly become a hub for connection and opportunity.

From North Shields to Zambia

Sometimes, the impact of local support can reach far beyond our own community. YMCA North Tyneside recently had the privilege of contributing to the Association of Youth Work Studies (AYWS) in Zambia, a donation that will directly support the training of future youth workers.

Happy Women Project: A Festive Trip

Sometimes, a simple outing can be a window into something much larger. Recently, participants from our Happy Women Project took a trip to the Newcastle Christmas Market, and for one attendee, it was a first.

Celebrating Creativity and Inclusion

We are thrilled to announce that the Shildon Youth Group has won the prestigious NE Youth competition! Their project, which focused on raising awareness and understanding of the experiences of those with sight barriers, captivated the judges with its creativity and thoughtfulness.

Case Study: Olivia’s Journey, From Lost to Found

Olivia’s story is a stark reminder of how systemic failures can devastate a young life. Imagine a childhood fractured by instability, a constant cycle of abandonment. That was Olivia’s reality. Entering the care system at a young age, she endured multiple foster home breakdowns in the North East. Then, at just 12, she was uprooted and sent to a children’s home in Scotland, deepening her sense of displacement.

Art & Beats: Feeding Community

Street art and dance music in the mix for community meals fundraising collaboration. A powerful street art mural, a party with a world-famous secret DJ guest, digital projections, filmmaking and an iconic social club are all part of a unique fundraising collaboration...

Willington Quay Tiempos FC Sponsorship

By Summer Thompson. YMCA North Tyneside is excited to announce our sponsorship of the Willington Quay Under 14's Tiempos football squad. This partnership aims to bolster the team’s resources and provide young athletes with enhanced opportunities to develop their...

Case Study: Olivia’s Journey, From Lost to Found

Olivia’s story is a stark reminder of how systemic failures can devastate a young life. Imagine a childhood fractured by instability, a constant cycle of abandonment. That was Olivia’s reality. Entering the care system at a young age, she endured multiple foster home breakdowns in the North East. Then, at just 12, she was uprooted and sent to a children’s home in Scotland, deepening her sense of displacement.

Case Study: Leah’s Story

After a rocky start in life with a difficult home background, Leah was keen to gain some independence as her foster parents were due to retire.

Case Study: Vicky’s Story

The death of her partner sent Vicky’s life spiralling. 8 years and an abusive partner later, Vicky’s 2 children were living with her mum, she was in rent arrears and trying to recover from a Heroin addiction, that’s when YMCA stepped in.

Case Study: Abi’s Story

After multiple police incidents and difficulties at home, the Youth Offending Team along with Social Services referred Abi to YMCA. Abi’s behaviour made her presence at home with her mum and younger siblings unsafe, forcing Social Services to take action, removing Abi’s 1 year old son from the home and placing them both into alternative care.

Case Study: Rosie’s Story

Rosie was referred to YMCA at the age of 16 at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. With her parents out of the country and grandparents unable to cope with caring for her, Rosie found herself in a dark place with nowhere to go.

Finding Their Forever Home: Transforming Lives Through Accessible Housing

Working with partners to find a suitable home for three long-term residents with learning difficulties

Hayden’s Journey to Independence

Hayden’s journey is a testament to the power of believing and the transformative impact of YMCA North Tyneside.

Beyond Supported Living: A Journey to Self-Sufficiency

A resident’s story of overcoming challenges and moving on to thrive in independence

Case Study: Oli’s Story

Oli was an emergency referral to YMCA from Children’s Services. He was 16 and in foster care, but his placement had broken down following an argument with his carers.

Case Study: Sam’s Story

At just 16 years of age, Sam lost his older brother unexpectedly. His parents were overwhelmed with grief and struggled to cope with day to day life which led to Sam moving in with his grandma. Struggling with the death of his sibling and not having any support from his parents left Sam with a heavy burden, turning to alcohol and other substances to help numb the pain.