Facing homelessness is one of the most overwhelming and frightening situations a young adult can experience. Whether it’s due to family breakdown, eviction, or leaving care with nowhere safe to go, the urgent need for shelter, stability, and support can’t be overstated. At YMCA Robin Hood Group, we understand the emotional and physical strain this crisis causes and are here to help – immediately and without judgment.
With dedicated emergency housing services across Nottinghamshire, YMCA offers young people aged 16-25 a safe place to stay when it’s needed most. More than just a roof, our centres provide structure, support, and a pathway toward long-term stability. This blog post will guide you through how to access our emergency accommodation, what to expect upon arrival, and how we work with you to take the next steps.
Step-by-Step: Accessing Emergency Housing Through YMCA
Step 1: Reach Out Immediately
If you or someone you know is facing a housing crisis, don’t wait – contact us as soon as possible. YMCA Robin Hood operates emergency accommodation across several Nottinghamshire locations including Nottingham city, Worksop, Mansfield, and Ashfield. Each site has trained staff available to offer support, advice, and a safe place to stay.
Here are the current emergency contact numbers:
- YMCA Nottingham: 0115 837 1950
- YMCA Workshop: 01909 472 662
YMCA Mansfield: 01623 624 640 - YMCA Ashfield: 01623 499 100
You can also email housing@nottsymca.org or visit our website to complete a referral or request a callback. We respond to urgent referrals around the clock and always aim to help as quickly as possible.
If you’re under 18 or working with social services, a key worker or youth advisor can help with referrals and support your application.
Step 2: Intake and Assessment
Once you’ve made contact, our team will guide you through the initial intake and assessment process. This typically includes:
- A short interview to understand your current situation
- Basic identification or referral information
- A quick risk and needs assessment to match you with the right service
Don’t worry if you don’t have documents with you, we understand that emergencies can be chaotic, and our priority is getting you safe.
Assessments are handled sensitively and confidentially. Our staff are trained in trauma-informed care and will never judge or pressure you. Whether you’re escaping unsafe living conditions or simply have nowhere else to go, we’re here to listen and act.
Step 3: Moving into Emergency Accommodation
If a place is available, you’ll usually be able to move in on the same day. If not, we’ll help you find safe alternatives while waiting for a space to open.
Each of our emergency housing centres offers:
- A private or semi-private room with a bed and storage
- Shared kitchen and bathroom facilities
- Communal areas for social interaction
- On-site staff 24 hours a day
- Secure entry systems to ensure safety
You’ll be welcomed by a key worker who will help you settle in, explain the house rules, and make sure you have essentials like toiletries, bedding, and food if needed.
Step 4: What to Expect in the First Days
The first few days in emergency accommodation can feel like a whirlwind. YMCA staff are here to support you from day one, offering:
- Emotional support and a listening ear
- Help registering with a GP, accessing benefits or contacting family
- Practical advice on budgeting, routines, and daily living
- Connection to other services, such as mental health, education, or employment support
We understand that everyone arrives with different stories and levels of independence. Whether you need lots of help or just a safe place to stay, our care is tailored to your needs.
Step 5: Planning for the Future
Emergency housing is designed to be short-term, usually up to 12 weeks. During your stay, our team will work closely with you to plan your next steps toward longer-term accommodation and greater stability. This may involve:
- Transitioning to supported housing through YMCA or another provider
- Applying for social housing or private rentals
- Enrolling in education or training programmes
- Accessing mental health or substance misuse support if needed
Your key worker will help you build a realistic, person-centred support plan.
What Makes YMCA’s Emergency Housing Unique?
24-Hour Support, Every Day of the Year
All of our emergency centres are staffed 24/7 by experienced support workers. Whether you need help at midnight or midday, there is always someone to talk to.
Safe, Supportive Environments
YMCA housing is designed to be safe, respectful and empowering. We create a culture of trust and accountability, where young people can recover from crises without fear of judgment or harm.
Local Access Across Nottinghamshire
With services available in multiple towns and cities, we provide local solutions to homelessness. Staying close to your education, employment, or family support networks can make all the difference in recovery.
Holistic, Person-Centred Approach
YMCA doesn’t believe in ‘one size fits all’ We work with each resident individually, understanding their needs, goals and aspirations. Our care is rooted in Christian values of compassion, dignity and service, but we welcome people of all faiths or none.
If you’re a young person in Nottinghamshire and have nowhere to stay tonight, help is available right now. YMCA Robin Hood’s emergency housing service is designed to respond quickly, respectfully, and with practical support that makes a difference.
What to do:
- Call us:
- Nottingham: 0115 837 1950
- Worksop: 01909 472 662
- Mansfield: 01623 624 640
- Ashfield: 01623 499 100
- Email: housing@nottsymca.org
- Visit: www.nottsymca.com/housing
- Speak to a youth worker or support worker to help with referral.
Whether you’re sleeping rough, staying with friends, or worried you’ll be asked to leave home soon, it’s never too early (or too late) to get in touch.
You don’t have to face homelessness alone. YMCA’s emergency housing is here to support you in building something better.