YMCA Norfolk has been named as a finalist in four categories of the Youth Matters Awards 2025 and is appealing for help to win the national finals.

Four of YMCA Norfolk’s projects and individuals have been named finalists in the 2025 Youth Matters Awards, hosted by YMCA England & Wales. These awards celebrate all the passion, hard work and dedication of their young people, staff and volunteers but they need YOUR help to bring home the trophies! 

The winners are determined by a public vote and scored by a panel of independent judges. YMCA Norfolk is now asking for votes to support it in the following categories:

Young Leader of the Year – Sara Rogers

Sara Rogers, Deputy Nursery Manager at Muddy Puddles Nursery, has been shortlisted for her exceptional leadership and mentorship. Developing from practitioner to manager, Sara has inspired her team by leading with empathy, identifying potential in young staff, and fostering a culture of growth and ownership.

Housing Project of the Year – Housing & Life Ready

This innovative partnership offers more than just a home – it provides a pathway to independence. Housing provides a safe, stable home, often after periods of instability, trauma, or unsafe living conditions. Life Ready is a programme available to all residents, helping them develop the confidence, tools, and emotional resilience they need to live independently. With over 260 workshops and positive activity sessions and more than 480 coaching sessions in the last year, the project’s holistic approach has helped residents transition into education, employment, and independent living.

Support & Advice Project of the Year – Dads Breakfast Club

Dad’s Breakfast Club has supported 20 fathers and their children through a unique 8-week programme focused on emotional wellbeing, parenting skills, and play-based bonding. The father-focused, culturally sensitive model has empowered dads to build stronger relationships and feel truly seen in parenting spaces.

Health & Wellbeing Project of the Year – Professional Therapeutic Pathway (PTP)

The Professional Therapeutic Pathway (PTP) is a transformative waitlist initiative that has significantly improved access to mental health support for young people across Norfolk. They’ve reducing wait times from up to two years to in as little as one week in some cases. With over 250 young people supported in the past year, PTP’s flexible, relational model ensures no one is left behind. Young people are actively involved in shaping their care, with 84% of those completing therapy showed measurable improvement.
 
Voting is now open to the public until August 25, and YMCA Norfolk is calling on the Norfolk community to help bring these incredible projects and people to the national stage. To cast your votes and learn more, visit: www.ymcanorfolk.org/youthmatters