YMCA CEO Highlights Urgent Need For Affordable Housing For Young People On Isle Of Wight

Phillipa Spicer, Chief Executive of YMCA Fairthorne Group, has warned of the growing housing challenges facing young people on the Isle of Wight.

Her comments came following her attendance at the YMCA England & Wales Building Futures launch at the House of Commons.

National figures show that over 101,000 young people aged 16-24 sought help from their local council with homelessness in 2023/24, a 12% increase on the previous year.

Rising living costs, limited affordable housing, and higher demand are putting huge pressure on young people locally.

On the Isle of Wight and parts of Hampshire, average house prices are now up to eight to ten times local earnings, making it extremely difficult for young people to live independently.

“Here in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, these pressures are very real,” said Spicer.

“Demand for affordable housing continues to outstrip supply, the private rental market is increasingly out of reach for many young people, and local services are operating under sustained pressure.”

She added that limited affordable housing options on the Isle of Wight could push young people away, with long-term consequences for local communities and services.

YMCA’s national goal to deliver 10,000 affordable homes over the next five years aims to address this rising need.

Locally, YMCA Fairthorne Group focuses on early intervention, creating housing pathways, and providing practical support to help young people develop skills, confidence and resilience.

“As we look ahead, our focus remains clear: to champion young people, to play our part in tackling housing challenges locally, and to ensure our services continue to deliver meaningful, positive impact,” said Spicer.