In 2018 in response to research we commissioned, we took the step of employing a Community Engagement Officer to work with communities and partners to explore their needs in more detail and to develop plans to meet those needs.
Our discussions with partners also gave us a clear indication of the need for somewhere that organisations could come together to share information and best practice in a relaxed, but structured and regular way; somewhere for new ideas to be explored, new partnerships to be forged and new activities developed and delivered together, leading to a stronger support network for the whole town.
We felt that the YMCA was perfectly placed to fulfil this role, with the space, location, impartiality and the will to help make it happen. We therefore tasked our Community Engagement Officer with developing a “Support the Supporters” network which is now firmly established. Over 60 people from 35 different organisations have attended Support the Supporter sessions, discussing themes which have included young people, Inter-generational working and volunteering.
If you work for an organisation which delivers support to the local community, we would love you to be part of Support the Supporters. Please contact Martin Froggett at communities@ymcascarborough.uk for more information.