YMCA DownsLink Group welcomed Liberal Democrat MP for Eastbourne Josh Babarinde, on Friday 12 December 2025, to officially open three newly completed supported accommodation units for 16-25 year olds in the area. Funded by the Rotary Club of Eastbourne’s Centenary Year Benevolent Fund, work on the accommodation began in January. Two existing rooms have been fully refurbished, with an additional new flat created, suitable for abled-bodied and young people with disabilities.
During the opening ceremony Josh Babarinde said: “I’ve seen firsthand the great work YMCA DownsLink Group is doing with children and young people
“This accommodation offers a dignified space for young people to progress, with holistic services to help get them back on their feet. I know this is vital to precipitate a change in young peoples’ lives. Thanks to the Rotary Club of Eastbourne for helping make this happen.”
YMCA DownsLink Group is the largest regional charity in Sussex and Surrey working to prevent youth homelessness and support children and young people’s emotional and mental health. It does this by providing a safe home, increasing life skills and self-confidence, and improving emotional wellbeing and mental health.
YMCA DownsLink Group CEO Emily Brock said: “We all work hard as a charity; it is a tough environment out there. So, it’s great to celebrate the opening of these new homes, huge thanks to the Rotary Club of Eastbourne.”
“Having a safe space, and one they are proud to call home, is key to enabling young people to thrive. Our thanks also to Josh Babarinde who understands the challenges they face and has taken the time to join us today.”
Christopher Dye, President of the Rotary, said: “This marks the culmination of our efforts to provide accommodation for homeless people in Eastbourne. A project which we began in our 2022 Centenary year.
“It has been a great pleasure working with YMCA DownsLink Group and the Rotary Club of Eastbourne is immensely proud of the outcome and the charity’s outstanding achievement”.
Many children and young people experience extraordinary challenges and adversity that can prevent their lives starting well. The ever-increasing level of risk and complexity they face has driven YMCA DownsLink Group services to be needed now more than ever. This year, the charity supported over 5,952 children and young people through their services. And a total of 896 young people from 16 to 25 were given a safe home.
