2012Annual Report

IntroChairs’ ReportWe hope you enjoy reading the pages of this Annual Report. The scope and impact of all our services simply cannot be reflected in such a concise document, but we trust it will give you a glimpse of the fabulous work achieved this year by the YMCA through its dedicated staff teams.

We’ve also seen some seismic changes in the YMCA’s operation across the length and breadth of the Black Country. In Autumn 2011 ‘YMCA Black Country Group’ was formed, enabling local YMCAs to develop a coordinated response to the changing public sector and financial landscape.

Through consultation with all our staff teams, we’ve developed new ‘Group’ Vision, Mission and Values (shown opposite) which we’re now using to help shape our future direction.

While the future will no doubt continue to present challenges, we’re confident that the impact of our new ‘Group’ structure will be greater than the sum of our parts.

Trevor Palfreyman Joint Chair

Jon Rowe Joint Chair

Steve ClayCEO

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Chairs’ ReportWe hope you enjoy reading the pages of this Annual Report. The scope and impact of all our services simply cannot be reflected in such a concise document, but we trust it will give you a glimpse of the fabulous work achieved this year by the YMCA through its dedicated staff teams.

We’ve also seen some seismic changes in the YMCA’s operation across the length and breadth of the Black Country. In Autumn 2011 ‘YMCA Black Country Group’ was formed, enabling local YMCAs to develop a coordinated response to the changing public sector and financial landscape.

Through consultation with all our staff teams, we’ve developed new ‘Group’ Vision, Mission and Values (shown opposite) which we’re now using to help shape our future direction.

While the future will no doubt continue to present challenges, we’re confident that the impact of our new ‘Group’ structure will be greater than the sum of our parts.

Page 4 InspirePage 6 TrustPage 8 CompassionPage 10 Hope

Contents

Vision Statement

YMCA Black Country Group is part of an inclusive Christian Movement, transforming communities, so that all young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.

Mission Statement

Developing Body Mind & Spirit

Christian Values

Inspire, Trust, Compassion & Hope

Dudley | Sandwell | Rugeley | Walsall | Wolverhampton

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The YMCA inspires young people and the community to take control of their lives

Supporting Better FuturesYMCA Black Country Group provided accommodation for over 200 young people across the Black Country & Staffordshire, working to ensure residents have more than just a roof over their head; they were given the chance to gain skills and qualifications to help them move forward in life.

Residents at Badger Court Foyer produced a DVD “A Foyer Life,” which gave an insight into applying and getting a place in the YMCA and their positive experiences of life at the Foyer. This project not only allowed them to learn practical skills such as video editing, but also built their self-esteem when they shared their experiences with people.

Last year, the YMCA secured funding to provide a number of taster sessions for vulnerable young people, which included 5-a-side Football, Street Dance and Media Production where they learnt how to compose, perform and produce their own songs.

Raising Awareness of HomelessnessMarch 2012 saw an intense weekend of ‘sleeping rough so others don’t have to’. The YMCA organised a Group-wide “Sleep Easy” to raise awareness of homelessness. Over 140 participants slept rough for one night, raising in excess of £7,000 for the Moving Forward Fund, managed by our Youth Board. This fund will enable young people to apply for the essential items required for a safe and comfortable home on leaving our Supported Housing Schemes.

sleep easy 2012

Skills for WorkThe Learning & Skills team have been busy this

year helping people in the local community gain qualifications and employment; overall, they have

delivered over 100 courses across the Black Country.

In Wolverhampton, a new Neighbourhood Employment and Skills Service (NESS) was formed in the Eastfield area

of the City, which has seen 93 individuals receive effective advice and guidance, with 40 people successfully completing

employment training. They have also recently been commissioned to run a ‘Head Start’ training programme, which focuses specifically

on parents and carers who have been out of work, to get into education, training and employment.

In West Bromwich, over 110 young people were guided to training opportunities including over 60 who achieved Level 1 or 2 Certificate

in an online Food Hygiene course through High Speed Training.

Greenbelt CaféDuring the last weekend of August 2011, YMCA residents and staff took a camping

trip to volunteer at the Christian Arts Festival, Greenbelt. The residents each took shifts to work in the 24 hour YMCA Café, serving food and drinks to the festival goers.

It was hard work, but they all found it very beneficial as it helped them develop their customer service and interpersonal skills, as well as boosting confidence.

Inspire

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Skills for WorkThe Learning & Skills team have been busy this

year helping people in the local community gain qualifications and employment; overall, they have

delivered over 100 courses across the Black Country.

In Wolverhampton, a new Neighbourhood Employment and Skills Service (NESS) was formed in the Eastfield area

of the City, which has seen 93 individuals receive effective advice and guidance, with 40 people successfully completing

employment training. They have also recently been commissioned to run a ‘Head Start’ training programme, which focuses specifically

on parents and carers who have been out of work, to get into education, training and employment.

In West Bromwich, over 110 young people were guided to training opportunities including over 60 who achieved Level 1 or 2 Certificate

in an online Food Hygiene course through High Speed Training.

Greenbelt CaféDuring the last weekend of August 2011, YMCA residents and staff took a camping

trip to volunteer at the Christian Arts Festival, Greenbelt. The residents each took shifts to work in the 24 hour YMCA Café, serving food and drinks to the festival goers.

It was hard work, but they all found it very beneficial as it helped them develop their customer service and interpersonal skills, as well as boosting confidence.

SafeWhen I first came to England I worked in London, living with a friend. I went back

to Holland to renew my passport but when I returned my friend had moved and wouldn’t answer his phone. Somebody else was living in my house; I lost all of my

things and had nowhere to live – I was scared!

I ended up in West Bromwich where I slept in the bus station. I found a centre who gave me food and advice on where I should go for help. When I found the YMCA

they gave me somewhere to live – finally I was safe!

When I went to the YMCA I was eager to learn, I had very basic English as I am originally from Togo and was brought up in Holland. Sue helped me create a CV and I took part in a course

to learn basic IT skills. Thanks to the YMCA and their help I now have an appointment to attend college to improve my English.

I am very happy here at the YMCA. Sometimes I am still unsure of some things but I know that I can ask and someone will help me.

Kokou Resident

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People who use YMCA Services Trust the charity to deliver the best for them and their family

Outstanding Day CareIn October 2011, the YMCA Day Nursery at Greets Green Children’s Centre received an ‘OUTSTANDING’ OFSTED grade, reflecting the highest quality care for the children.

Opening DoorsOur YMCA Open Door Scheme helped 35 vulnerable young people, providing over 4,300 nights of accommodation. Of the 18 young people that moved on, 12 either returned home or were supported to move into more independent living.

Due to the proven success of the scheme in Sandwell, YMCA Open Door is now working in partnership with all the 4 councils in the Black Country.

I had heard how lovely the staff were and that the YMCA Day Nursery had an excellent reputation and OFSTED report. After hearing good reports, I was confident that the YMCA was the best place to send my little boy. I was nervous about leaving him at first and a bit sad, but after a few days I could see he was being very well looked after.

The YMCA has made a massive difference to my future as it has allowed me to go back to my job, knowing my son is happy, content and learning new things all the time. I don’t have to worry about whether he is okay or think about reducing my hours at work as he is settled and loves seeing his new friends.

Parent of Georgie Graham YMCA Day Nursery, Greets Green

No Worries

Trust

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Bridge to Freedom‘The Bridge’ continued to support the community,

with 641 new referrals into drug treatment - reducing drug use by offering free, friendly and non-

judgemental services for people overcoming drug & alcohol addictions. Over the year they exceeded local

and national targets.

In April 2011, the Bridge launched ‘The Alcohol Outreach Project’ working with people aged 19 – 25 years who are at

risk of or drinking excessively, with the aim of highlighting the risks of drinking, the physical and social effects it can have on

those around them and eventually reduce their alcohol use.

In the first year, the Alcohol Outreach Project has made contact with over 450 people through outreach, one-to-one sessions,

counselling and group therapy, giving advice and information surrounding alcohol use, many who have now significantly reduced

how much they drink.

Uniting for the KingdomIn January 2012, the first Unify conference - partly organised by YMCA Black

Country, took place in Northampton and over 120 staff, volunteers & young people from YMCA’s across Europe came together to learn and share their thoughts on how

to nurture and strengthen the Christian emphasis of the YMCA.

LightWhen I first came to the YMCA Bridge, I’d just stopped using heroin, I’d had depression for ten years and I felt like my life was dark and meaningless; there was

no hope for me.

I was referred to the Bridge by my key worker at Horizon House. She felt the help and facilities would greatly improve my health, confidence and overall life. After

only a couple of sessions with my counsellor, I felt my depression lifting and that there was finally a light at the end of the tunnel.

Being able to talk to someone that understands what I’ve been through is a great help and through these sessions we have set goals and little steps for me to reach. My future

now looks brighter, I think ahead and look forward to life, not dread it.

Adam Bridge Client

I had heard how lovely the staff were and that the YMCA Day Nursery had an excellent reputation and OFSTED report. After hearing good reports, I was confident that the YMCA was the best place to send my little boy. I was nervous about leaving him at first and a bit sad, but after a few days I could see he was being very well looked after.

The YMCA has made a massive difference to my future as it has allowed me to go back to my job, knowing my son is happy, content and learning new things all the time. I don’t have to worry about whether he is okay or think about reducing my hours at work as he is settled and loves seeing his new friends.

Parent of Georgie Graham YMCA Day Nursery, Greets Green

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Compassion

After I left my family home I was referred to the YMCA and went for an interview, the staff I met were very friendly and asked questions about my life and why I had left home; they put me at ease and I felt that I could be honest with them. I moved into my own flat two days later!

When I first moved in, I didn’t speak to people; I was happy just keeping myself to myself. One evening, I was invited out with some other residents and since then I’ve been more sociable and get involved in lots of activities that the YMCA offers.

I feel I like a different person since living in the YMCA. Instead of being shy and withdrawn, I am more open and happy to speak to new people or ask for advice if I need it, something I wouldn’t have done before. I have made a lot of friends at the YMCA - friends I know will be there for me no matter what.

Craig Resident

Everything that the ymca does is steeped in compassion

Moving on PositivelyDuring the year over 263 young people were supported in our Supported Housing projects with 70% positive move-ons either returning to their family, or supported to move into independent accommodation.

The YMCA renovated two shared flats in Pendeford providing 4 residents from our Supported Housing Scheme with supported “move-on” accommodation to enable them to progress to independence.

City Tots ThrivingDuring the past year City Tots Day Nursery have held open days for parents, parent consultations, a Graduation Day Ceremony and a number of fundraising events, all of which has helped to build a very good rapport with parents.

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PositiveI had been sleeping on the streets for a while, feeling vulnerable and constantly worrying that people would try to rob me. I was directed to the YMCA by the

council during the cold weather, for a hot meal and a bed for the night.

Whilst at the YMCA, one of the other rough sleepers invited me to join him at Grace Church in Wolverhampton which he had been attending. I went along and found it

enjoyable; they helped me to think straight.

During my time at the YMCA, the staff really helped me to think positively about my future and not dwell on the past. As a result, I am now going to church, no longer sleep on the

streets and turning my life around!

Karl Rough Sleeper

Community SpiritThe YMCA prides itself on working with people of

all backgrounds, ages and ethnicities.

This year YMCA Black Country Group has been able to work with low income families, running cooking classes to

encourage people to cook and eat together; the sessions also taught each member of the family how to manage

their money.

These families are often unable to go on holiday or get a well earned break. The YMCA secured funding to take 2 coaches to

Llandudno for the day giving the children a nice day out and the parents a relaxing break away from the stresses of daily life.

Another project working with older residents in the Wolverhampton area has allowed people to make use of an allotment to grow their own

vegetables and plants. They also produced hanging baskets which they sold to raise funds in order for the project to continue.

The YMCA has continued running low cost fitness classes to suit all ages and abilities both in Sandwell and Wolverhampton, providing gentle exercise for

older people and popular fast paced workouts, such as Zumba, at discounted rates for disabled people or those on benefits.

The two community cafés continue to provide high quality food at low prices and a relaxed space to socialise.

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HopeThe YMCA’s work brings hope for a better future

Building Brighter ProspectsYMCA continued its highly effective Youth Offending Programme at Werrington Prison enabling increased work in the community. The Integrated Offender Management programme received recognition from the Home Office as a Best Model Approach for its work and performance.

Skills for LifeMore than 40 YMCA residents received a City & Guilds Qualification in Employability and Personal Development. This project, in partnership with Sandwell College, has enabled the YMCA to gain ‘Direct Status’ with City & Guilds.

Over the course of the year, the YMCA provided a wide range of different services to help people who are not in work or training. For example the Neighbourhood Employment and Skills Service supported over 140 clients in their search for employment. Of these, 34 accessed further training and 14 secured sustainable employment. Our ‘Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities’ project exceeded our targets in the 3 key areas; Client Engagement, Skills for Jobs training and Progression.

YMCA ShopThe YMCA shop in Wednesfield has been shown good trading figures over the last 12 months, delivering surplus income to support the work of the YMCA in Wolverhampton. All donations are always gratefully received.

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Get Your Groove On!Over the past year, YGym has seen 20% in

increased numbers of local residents accessing the gym and exercise classes with an increase of

17% for new inductions.

In May 2011, the YMCA held a Zumbathon in partnership with Love Fitness, where members of the community

shimmied, shook and worked up a sweat to raise money for the YMCA. After 4 hours of Zumba, participants were treated

to a nice hot shower and a healthy lunch in the YMCAfé. The Zumbathon raised £500.

Donate - Pray - VolunteerYMCA Black Country Group is a local charity that relies on the support of

local people, companies, churches and organisations to enable our vital work with communities across the Black Country to continue and grow.

There are many ways you can help us and become part of the ongoing success story. Contact Stephen Bavington for more information

by email on stephen.bavington@ymcabc.org.uk or call on 01902 371 556.

Financial StatementsFinancial statements have been produced for

the year 2011 - 2012 in accordance with the requirements of Companies House & the Charity

Commission.

“In our opinion the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and the parent Association’s affairs as at 31 March 2012 and of the Group’s and the Association’s income and expenditure for

the year then ended; have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006,

the Housing & Regeneration Act 2008 and the Accounting Requirements for Registered Social Landlords General Determination 2006. In our opinion the information given in the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the

financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements.”

Mazars LLP, Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor

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0121 524 1950 | 01902 371 550www.ymcabc.org.uk

President Mr E MooreVice Presidents Lord Tarsem King, of West Bromwich Mr A D Owen, OBE Mr S Johnston OBEBoard Members Mrs H Bloxham Mr D Coates-Smith (Resigned Oct 2012)

Mr M Fussell Mr R Grainger (Resigned Oct 2012)

Mr L Kruczek Mrs B Moore Mr E Moore Revd J Oakley Mr T Palfreyman (Joint Chair)

Ms M Poonia Mr J Rowe (Joint Chair)

Ms S Sharma (Resigned Oct 2012)

Ms C Taylor Mr D Taylor (Resigned Sept 2012)

Mr P Walker Mr D Wilkins (Resigned Oct 2011)

Mrs W Williamson

PartnersWith grateful thanks to all of our supporters including

Adult Education Service

Aston University

BIG Lottery Fund

Church of England (Lichfield Diocese)

Churches & Individual Donors

Comic Relief

Department for Communities

& Local Government

Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

George Salter Collegiate Academy

Goldman Sachs Foundation

Halesowen College

Local Charitable Trusts

NLDC Fund

Probation Service

Sandwell Academy

Surestart Capital Grant

Sandwell College

Staff & Volunteers

Surestart Children’s Centres

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

UK Online

Urban Living

Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council

The West Brom Building Society

Wolverhampton City Council

Wolverhampton PCT

Wolverhampton University

YMCA England

YMCA Midlands Region

YMCA Trust Fund

YMCA Black Country Group (Formerly West Bromwich & District YMCA)

Charity No. 1086320 Company No. 4116412 RP No. L4550

YMCA Wolverhampton Charity No. 1043739 Company No. 3012233

YMCA Black Country Group Social Enterprises Ltd Company No. 3427861

West Bromwich & District YMCA Community Enterprises LtdCompany No. 3684577

Registered Office: 38 Carters Green,

West Bromwich, B70 9LG0121 524 1950 | 0121 524 1978

Administrative Office: 29-31 Temple Street,

Wolverhampton, WV2 4AN01902 371 550 | 01902 371 595