The Chaplaincy Retreat Programme will be a national programme offered by at least six local YMCAs across our network. Using an already successful model developed by One YMCA it supports those experiencing homelessness, who are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. The programme consists of an eight-week course to explore how participants can achieve their full potential and put them in a better position to make life-changing decisions. It uses appropriate Biblical stories to spark learning and discussion, culminating in a retreat to provide time and space for deeper reflection and growth.
 
Currently, 31 YMCAs offer chaplaincy services to young people through a dedicated team of paid and volunteer chaplains. They work broadly and openly with judgement with the aim of fostering spiritual development and providing essential support.
 
Our Chaplains care for individuals who encounter various challenges in achieving independence, particularly those transitioning from supported accommodation. Many have faced family breakdowns and homelessness, resulting in a sense of disconnection. Our residents often grapple with low self-esteem and self-worth. Homeless youth, in particular, face difficulties in building social contacts and networks, which can have profound, lifelong consequences, contributing to health issues and other negative outcomes. The Homeless Link's 2022 report, 'The Unhealthy State of Homelessness,' emphasises the growing health inequalities among those experiencing homelessness. They encounter significant barriers to healthcare and often receive poorer diagnoses.

The Chaplaincy Retreat Programme has been running at One YMCA for six years. Launching across at least 5 further sites, the eight-week course using the dynamics of a small group to help people explore how they can achieve their full potential in mind, body and spirit, and what life-changes they are considering. The retreat provides the opportunity to make significant life decisions away from distractions.

The course aims to provide, in a confidential and non-judgemental space, the time and space to think about and discuss as part of a small group questions such as: ‘Who am I? Why am I here? What is the truth? How do I live? Where is the way? When does it change?’ Using ancient Judeo-Christian stories, participants can reflect on the actions and attitudes of the characters, with space to draw parallels with their own experiences, allowing people to explore and share their own perspectives of belief and spirituality.
 
The course mitigates the effects of loneliness and the negative impacts on physical health, in contrast to many other programmes which tend to focus on material and physical needs. Although these needs are important, this often does not draw out personal meaning and insights from life. It opens the door for positive conversation and creates a safe space for personal transformation and increased self-worth. Focus is on individual experience within a social group, that supports each other in life affirming, empathetic and non-judgemental ways that can transform a person’s outlook and overall hope for a better future (Psychology, Vol.6 No.03 (2015). Chaplaincy provides a safe space for reflection, prayer and contemplation, it gives people hope where there was none.