A project between Romsey Mill and the YMCA in Cambridge is enhancing mental health and wellbeing for young people living in supported accommodation.

Every Friday, young people living in hostels within the city meet on Parker’s Piece to play football, supported by workers from Romsey Mill and the YMCA.

Gareth Williamson, Lead Youth Development Worker with Romsey Mill said:

“We wanted to create something with the young people that would enhance their wellbeing, take part in physical activity and improve the sense of community amongst them, as they joined up with other young people.”

“Each week, between 10 to 15 young people now get together to play football. For many, it is the only thing they do that gets them out and about.”

This summer, a team of the young people was entered into the McLafferty Cup, an annual 5-a-side football tournament organised by Winter Comfort and sponsored by Cambridge South Rotary Club.

Gareth said:

“The day was brilliant and it was a really positive experience for all the young people.

“At the end, it came down to goal difference. But our team won the trophy!

The young people were thrilled and celebrated like they had won the World Cup!”

Throughout the year, Romsey Mill engages with 2,500 local young people, children and families, supporting mental health and wellbeing through positive, relational youth and family work. 

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