Every conversation has the potential to create change.
At YMCA Basingstoke, that belief recently came to life as residents took part in YMCA England & Wales’ Next Steps survey, a national initiative designed to better understand the experiences, aspirations and challenges facing young people as they prepare for independent living.
The survey focuses on two of the biggest milestones many young people face: moving into employment and finding a place to call home. It explores what daily life looks like, how confident young people feel about taking their next steps, and the barriers they encounter along the way.
While the survey itself is national, its success depends on the trusted relationships built within local YMCAs.
At YMCA Basingstoke, Toni supported residents throughout the process, taking the time to explain why the survey mattered, answer questions and encourage participation. Her support helped ensure more young people felt confident sharing their experiences, knowing their voices would contribute to something much bigger than their individual circumstances.
Every resident who completed the survey received a £20 One4All voucher as a thank you from YMCA England & Wales. Toni was also recognised by the national team for her commitment to helping residents engage with the initiative, receiving a thank-you package in recognition of her efforts.
The information gathered through the survey will remain anonymous, but collectively it provides YMCA England & Wales with valuable evidence about the realities young people face when trying to access employment, education, training and affordable housing. Those insights will help inform discussions with Government and support YMCA’s national ambition to improve opportunities for young people across England and Wales.
For the young people who took part, completing the survey may have only taken a short amount of time. Yet their experiences will contribute to a much larger picture, helping shape future services, influence policy and ensure decisions are grounded in the voices of those living the reality every day.
It’s a reminder that some of the most important work we do isn’t always immediately visible. By creating trusted environments where young people feel heard, our colleagues are not only supporting individuals today, but helping improve opportunities for future generations.
A huge thank you to Toni for championing this opportunity and ensuring the voices of our residents became part of a national conversation.
