What we do

Together, as the YMCA federation in England and Wales, we focus our work around the following key areas of work.

Accommodation
We supply nearly 10,000 beds every night, ranging from emergency accommodation to supported living. 

Family Work
We deliver a wide range of family services, including nurseries, after school clubs and relationship services.

Health & Wellbeing
YMCA is the largest voluntary sector provider of services promoting health and wellbeing in England.

Training & Education
YMCAs offer a range of education, skills-based training, placement and apprenticeship schemes.

Support & Advice
YMCA is there for every young person in the community, supporting them through difficult times with a wide range of services.

Policy and Research
Our Policy and Research work aims at giving young people a voice.

 

Work for us

YMCAs in England and Wales are vibrant places to work, offering opportunities for staff to grow and develop in supportive environments. Everyone who works for YMCA contributes hugely to improving the prospects for vulnerable young people and wider communities.

 

Volunteer

Volunteering in your local YMCA is a great way to learn new skills, build new friendships and contribute to your local community. It may also enhance your CV and job prospects for the future!

With YMCAs working in more than 660 communities in England and Wales, there are plenty of roles to get involved in and opportunities to embrace.

Why not have a look at our volunteering options below and get in touch with your local YMCA to offer your support?

You can help with:

  • Sports, exercise and fitness classes
  • Youth work
  • Day camps/holiday schemes
  • Housing
  • Fundraising and publicity
  • Administration and finance
  • Mentoring
  • Becoming a board/committee member.

If you would like to volunteer at YMCA England & Wales – the national council of YMCAs in England and Wales, please email us directly. Volunteer positions may be available in our Fundraising, Policy and Communications teams.

Volunteer in a YMCA charity shop

We have more than 800 volunteers helping us in our YMCA charity shops all over England and Wales. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and include students who want to contribute to the community, people who are retired and have some time to spare, and young people who want to gain retail experience to improve their CV.

If you’re interested in volunteering at a YMCA England & Wales charity shop, speak to someone behind the counter in your nearest store or contact our retail team.