Chloe becomes YMCA patron

New Norwich North Conservative MP, Chloe Smith, has been on a fact-finding visit to YMCA Norfolk to meet senior staff and residents and has agreed to back the Christian charity in its work across the region by becoming a patron.

Ms Smith met with YMCA Norfolk chief executive Tim Sweeting along with head of housing services Eddie Pleban and staff at the Central Norwich YMCA.

She also had the opportunity to meet one young resident, Chelsea Evans, who told Chloe how she was living in a skip in a shop car park in Norwich before she was offered a room at Central.

Across Norfolk, the YMCA has two large accommodation units in Norwich at the Bus Station and on St Giles. It also provides individual supported lodgings for around 45 young people as well as a further 23 places in emergency Nightstop accommodation for three nights, including several of both types in the Norwich North area.

Chloe said: “I am an enthusiastic supporter of local agencies, including the YMCA, working to tackle the problem of homelessness in Norwich and I am keen to support them in their vital work.

“YMCA Norfolk relies on dozens of local people being willing to open up their homes to vulnerable young people who are in difficulties and facing homelessness. I would urge my constituents and others to consider getting involved in this very important community role and contact the YMCA for more details.”

Chloe has also agreed to become a patron of YMCA Norfolk to help raise its profile and back its fundraising efforts to help fund the development of new residential facilities in Norwich. She joins other local MPs, Charles Clarke, Richard Bacon and Norman Lamb, among others.

YMCA Norfolk chief executive Tim Sweeting said: “I am really pleased that Chloe is taking a keen interest in our work with vulnerable young people across the city and county. She was particularly interested in our work to tackle homelessness through our supported lodgings and Nightstop schemes and our plan to develop new flats for young people on Bethel Street.

“Chloe was also keen to hear of our work in 30 high schools across the region, where we can provide someone to get alongside vulnerable young people and provide a listening ear and support when they need it most. I look forward to working with Chloe in the future.”