About YMCA South Devon

For more than a century, YMCA South Devon has been part of the fabric of our local community, supporting children, young people and families across Torbay and the wider South Devon area. We are an independent local charity, proud to combine the values of the global YMCA movement with a deep understanding of the communities we serve.

Today, our work reaches far beyond traditional youth services. From high-quality early years provision and alternative education to wellbeing programmes, community activities and support for young people facing difficult circumstances, including youth homelessness, we create opportunities for people to grow in confidence, build resilience and achieve their potential. Everything we do is driven by a simple belief: that every person deserves the chance to belong, contribute and thrive.

Our history reflects our commitment to adapting to local need. A YMCA has been present in Torbay for over 100 years, and our organisation has continued to evolve as the community around us has changed. Our long-standing home in Dartmouth Road, Paignton, was opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1969, became a hub for generations of local people, while the transition to YMCA South Devon in 1999 strengthened our ability to serve communities across the region.

An exciting new chapter began for us in February 2026, when we moved to our current premises in Belle Vue Road, Paignton.  This has allowed us to expand our services and support more young people.  The new location strengthens our role in the community, offering education, youth programs, and pathways to independence for vulnerable young people

Although our services have grown and developed over the years, our purpose has remained the same: investing in people, creating opportunities and building stronger communities. We are proud of our heritage, but even more excited about the future and the positive impact we can continue to make for Torbay and South Devon.

What can young people expect?

We work hard to ensure we meet the needs of all the children and young people we support, to enable them to reach their goals and realise their potential.