Team YMCA Bournemouth to Run in the TCS London Marathon 2025

January 28, 2025

Two dedicated runners have stepped up to represent YMCA Bournemouth in the prestigious TCS London Marathon, answering the call featured in the 8th July edition of the Bournemouth Daily Echo. This year’s marathon is set to take place on 27 April 2025.

All funds raised by the YMCA Bournemouth team will directly support people who were once homeless and are now part of the YMCA family. These vital funds will contribute to the charity’s ongoing mission of providing short-term supported housing and person-centred services.

YMCA Bournemouth currently operates across four projects, offering 114 beds to those in need. This includes 73 hostel rooms, 22 flats, 7 shared flats (14 beds), and a five-bedroom house. Their support extends to individual men and women aged 18 to 65, helping them rebuild their lives and achieve greater independence.

The primary aims of YMCA Bournemouth’s housing and support services are to:

Provide intensive housing management and person-centred support.
Offer short-term housing solutions.
Build confidence in daily living tasks and essential life skills through key work and workshops.
Stabilise addiction, creating a foundation for recovery.
Offer a fresh start and pave the way to a brighter future.
Prepare individuals for independent living, voluntary work, and employment opportunities.

Gareth Sherwood, CEO of YMCA Bournemouth, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event:

“We are thrilled to have two incredible individuals representing YMCA Bournemouth in this year’s TCS London Marathon. Their efforts will raise vital funds that empower our residents to overcome challenges and develop the skills they need to lead fulfilling, independent lives. This marathon is not just about the race but about building brighter futures together.”

Funds raised will directly help hostel residents become move-on ready, addressing various personal challenges and equipping them with the tools and confidence to thrive independently.

YMCA Bournemouth extends its heartfelt gratitude to the runners and all those supporting this cause. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals in need.

For further information or to donate, please contact:

Christopher Wakefield

Email: christopher.wakefield@ymcabournemouth.org.uk

Telephone: 07871855184

https://www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/housing/tcs-london-marathon-2025-updates

Notes to editors:

About YMCA Bournemouth

YMCA Bournemouth’s mission is to strive to enable people to develop their full potential in mind, body, and spirit. YMCA Bournemouth creates supportive, inclusive, and energising communities where people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.

It works across key areas: Accommodation, Youth Work, Family Work, Health & Wellbeing, Training & Education and Support & Advice.

Today, the organisation has over a dozen sites, including dedicated accommodation on Westover Road, providing short-term supported housing for men and women aged 18 and over.

The organisation also owns and manages The Junction Sports and Leisure Centre in Broadstone and the Bayside Fitness Club in Poole. These establishments host more than 6,000 members within Dorset; run as not for profit, the membership fees directly support YMCA Bournemouth’s work to aid the local community.

For further information please contact:

Martin Stockley

Joint Chief Operations Officer

martin.stockley@ymcabournemouth.org.uk

01202 777766

07897 563473

Address:

YMCA Bournemouth

56 Westover Road

Bournemouth

BH1 2BS

Website – https://www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/