YMCA Derbyshire is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine Atkinson, Labour MP for Derby North, as a Parliamentary Patron. The Parliamentary Patron programme is there to create advocates for both the national and regional YMCAs within parliament. Their role is to make sure that legislation captures the expertise and recommendations that the oldest youth charity in the world has to share – making sure that young people are supported to belong, contribute and thrive by government policy.
Gillian Sewell, CEO of YMCA Derbyshire, made the presentation to Catherine at the new Padley Community Hub on Parcel Terrace in Derby, which is in Catherine’s constituency. The new Hub opened in December 2024 and is evolving into a vibrant centre, delivering a variety of services and support to individuals and families at risk of experiencing homelessness and/or poverty.
Catherine Atkinson was elected as MP for Derby North in the 2024 general election. She is also a member of the Commons’ Select Transport Committee and an officer of four All Party Parliamentary Groups, focused on justice, rail and nuclear energy. Before being elected Catherine was a barrister with 17 years of legal experience. She is passionate about creating a safer, greener, fairer Derby, which aligns to YMCA Derbyshire’s values and mission.
Catherine Atkinson MP joins an organisation that has been serving people, locally, nationally, and internationally for over 180 years. When asked what it means to her to become a Parliamentary Patron Catherine Atkinson MP said:
“Week in, week out, YMCA Derbyshire continues to build on decades of vital work supporting local young people and vulnerable adults, providing housing, training, and opportunities to help them thrive. I’ve seen firsthand how their unwavering commitment to empowering communities makes a real difference in transforming lives for the better.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to support their efforts in building brighter futures across our city and I was honoured to be asked to join their team as a Parliamentary Patron.”
Gillian Sewell, YMCA Derbyshire CEO said, “I am delighted that Catherine will be representing the vital work that our YMCA does in parliament. We are thrilled to have her on board to support our cause, and to raise awareness of the challenges that our young people and communities face in Derby today. Since her election last year, she has already been a huge support to us, and I am looking forward to working with her as a patron.”
About YMCA Derbyshire
YMCA Derbyshire is a charity that has been supporting young people and communities since 1847. As an organisation, we believe in fairness and opportunity, and focus on the following key areas of work: Housing; providing 212 bed spaces each night for individuals at risk of homelessness. Training and Education through YMCA Key College we provide pathways to accredited and non-accredited vocational training, adult education programmes and employment opportunities. Support, Advice, Health and Wellbeing; providing a whole host of community services, youth programmes, mental health support, horticulture opportunities, food provision and access to warm spaces. Family and Youth Work including nurseries, family support, and school-based initiatives. All of which positively impact individuals, fosters resilience and progression toward independence, regardless of past experiences or present circumstances.
For more information contact:
Debs Powell, Head of Marketing and Communications Email: debs.powell@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk
Tel: 07842 422579
