New Central Norwich YMCA opens its doors

The new £2.9 million Central Norwich YMCA opened its doors to residents for the first time on January 5.

The Norwich Central YMCA, on All Saints Green opposite the new Norwich bus station, will focus on serving the accommodation needs of 16-25 year olds, both male and female, from across the county.

It provides 34 en-suite bedrooms and support facilities including a restaurant, communal lounges and a fitness area and residents have already started to occupy its rooms.

YMCA Norfolk chief executive officer John Drake, said: “Our mission is to invest in the most vulnerable in our community. We realise the desperate need for accommodation for these young men and women at risk. At long last we are glad we can offer quality en-suite accommodation for both young men and women.”

Deborah Gihawi, manager of the new YMCA centre, with assistant manager Martin Rye. Photo: Evening News.

All young people between 16 and 25 that arrive at the YMCA's current home in St Giles Street will be referred to the new building while older people will still be accommodated in St Giles Street.

Those referred will be assessed by experienced and skilled staff prior to an individual support plan being agreed and drafted. As an assessment centre the accommodation is temporary with an intended stay of no more than six months by which time it is hoped they will be better equipped with the skills needed to cope in the outside world.

Deborah Gihawi is the new manager at the centre. She said: “I think people are feeling quite excited because it's been something that's new and it will take on its own character and culture. I feel very excited and keen and ready to take this on.”