Collaboration is at the heart of Cove House

What does it take to get a brand-new housing project off the ground and ready to provide five-star support?

“Partnerships, collaboration and a whole range of supporters,” laughs YMCA Exeter’s Torbay Housing Manager, Lydia Brown. “From churches, to colleges and furniture providers, we’re collaborating with over twenty different organisations in Torbay.”  

One of the supporters we’re hugely thankful for is Home Church:

“The work of the YMCA is inspiring, amazing and vital to the Kingdom of God here in South Devon,” says Jordan Williams. “As a local Church leader, the ability to partner with a strong Christian organisation that has a strong culture of love, respect and dignity for both staff and young people is a no-brainer for us at Home Church. We thank God for the growing work the YMCA does for those marginalised within our community.”

From DJs to radio presenters, Sound Communities in Paignton is another one of our supporters we’re so thankful for. They provide digital production opportunities to engage and mobilise marginalised young people.  

“From our work at Sound Communities, we have seen the depth of need for projects like this in the area and for this age group,” says Callum Elliott. “A stable support that encompasses all aspects of life, not just one area, that creates stable housing, offers reliable face-to-face support and builds strong meaningful links to the community is essential to meet the breadth of needs that the most vulnerable young people face.’

Alongside the collaboration, we’re also excited for the impact this new housing development is having on communities in Paignton.

Paignton-based builder, Sean, has been leading the refurbishment project with his local company Refined Build. Thanks to the building teams commitment and care, each young person will be moving into a brand-new beautifully refurbished flat.  

“There are so many empty hotels in Torbay and so many young people in need of a home,” says Sean. “I see what YMCA Exeter has done in Exeter and I’m so glad to be part of this. It’s nothing but amazing.  

“This new contract has changed everything for our small, local business and I’m delighted to be able to take on new, young people from Torbay. As my company grows I’ve got the opportunity to help people and promote the youth through it. I can take on new local workers. And that’s the knock-on effect.”  

Through the YMCA Exeter project, Refined Build has created five new full-time jobs in the construction industry for residents of Torbay.  

A big thank you to everyone who is joining with us in making Cove House possible:

• Refined Build
• Torbay Council
• YMCA South Devon
• South Devon College
• 2 be ready
• Eat that frog
• Breakthrough
• Bay Church
• Home Church
• Shekinah
• Sound Communities
• Build Torbay Project
• Gaia Coffee
• Torquay Job Centre
• Supa Dopamine
• Torbay Furniture Project
• Sonda
• Makers Art
• Turning Heads
• What’s your problem
• Salvation Army