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YMCA calls on MPs to focus on youth ahead of next election

YMCA YMCA youth ambassador Jess MarriottYMCA
YMCA youth ambassador Jess Marriott said it was important that young people were listened to in Parliament

A women who was helped by the YMCA has taken the organisation's call for more youth-centred policies to the House of Commons.

Jess Marriott, 24, from Norwich, was joined in Parliament by representatives of the YMCA.

She said there was a need for more affordable homes, youth and mental health services.

"The important thing is that a lot of young people don't feel they are being listened to," she said.

Qays Najm/BBC YMCA youth ambassador Jess MarriottQays Najm/BBC
BBC Politics East talked to Jess Marriott about the concerns of young people

"It is really important for young people to have the opportunity to go to the House of Commons and meet with [MPs], and speak to them about the issues that are affecting young people."

She said MPs need to hear young people's views, particularly ahead of the upcoming general election.

Ms Marriott said she received support from the YMCA after her rent became unaffordable.

"I had my own place and I became homeless because of the cost of living and rent going up. I couldn't afford to pay it, so I reached out to the YMCA," she said.

"I moved into YMCA Central in Norwich, a stepping stone to help me become more independent and to eventually get my own place again."

Qays Na/BBC John Lee, the chief executive officer of the YMCA NorfolkQays Na/BBC
John Lee, the chief executive officer of the YMCA Norfolk, said the group runs a café in Norwich which helps fund its work

John Lee, the chief executive officer of YMCA Norfolk, said youth ambassadors from Norfolk travelled to London to talk to MPs.

"We are passionate about making sure those in power hear the voices of young people," he said.

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'Prioritise and invest in young people'

YMCA YMCA manifesto launchYMCA
The YMCA launched its manifesto this week

The YMCA has been working to improve young people's access to affordable housing, education, youth services and financial and mental health support.

Denise Hatton, the chief executive of YMCA England and Wales, said: "Now is our chance to prioritise and invest in our young people, and we urge the next government to take this responsibility seriously.

"YMCA calls on the next government to create positive change and a brighter future for the younger generations across the country. We cannot afford to leave anyone behind."

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BBC Politics East will be broadcast on Sunday, 28 January at 10:00 GMT on BBC One in the East of England, and will be available after broadcast on BBC iPlayer.

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