YMCA Youth, Training and Education Center

Ellis Hillman is proud to be collaborating with the YMCA on the design of a much needed Youth, Training and Education center. This redevelopment of a portion of their North Staffordshire campus, provides larger, more flexible training, education, and support facilities for young people in the area. This development is an important part of the YMCA’s ongoing mission to support and empower youth by offering a variety of services that enhance their lives and skills.

The YMCA is the oldest and largest charity focused on supporting young people worldwide. Operating as a federation across England and Wales, it consists of 116 local YMCAs that work independently to serve the young people in their respective communities. The charity offers a broad range of vital services, including housing, apprenticeships, health and fitness programs, and counselling. The YMCA also specialises in working with both young men and women, advocating for their needs and striving to be a strong voice for youth across the globe.

The redevelopment project at the YMCA’s North Staffordshire campus is a complex undertaking, requiring the demolition of an outdated single-storey section of the facility. In its place, there is a two-storey extension which covers over 400 square meters of space. This new extension includes a wide range of specialist areas designed to meet the needs of young people in the region, such as Art & Crafts spaces, Digital Training zones, and areas dedicated to Careers and Life skills training. Additionally, the extension includes much-needed support facilities for staff.

The new and improved community facilities are set to play a crucial role in positively supporting the young people of North Staffordshire, helping them to belong, contribute, and thrive. Through this redevelopment, Ellis Hillman and the YMCA aim to create an environment that inspires and empowers the next generation, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed.