Case study

One YMCA opens revitalised campus to provide homes and training

Project snapshot

Who

One YMCA

What

Redevelopment of housing and training facility

Why

To provide homes, support, and opportunities for young people

How

CAF Bank Loan

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The cause

One YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in body, mind and spirit. Serving communities for over 130 years, and part of a global network of 14,000 YMCAs, its services support thousands of people across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

Looking to increase and modernise the support it provides, One YMCA embarked on a multi-year £15.2 million project to redevelop one of its key residential and training facilities – Peartree Campus in Welwyn Garden City.

Group of people talking in small groups in YMCA

Our support

One YMCA proceeded with the redevelopment and revitalisation of the original 1967 Peartree Campus after securing a £9 million loan facility from CAF Bank.

“This project would not have been possible without the support of CAF Bank”, says One YMCA’s CEO, Guy Foxell. “They shared our vision for Peartree, recognised our values and provided a loan facility that ensured it was delivered to the highest possible standard.”

In addition to the new Peartree Campus, CAF Bank’s support has also enabled One YMCA to refinance an existing loan and to refurbish and develop existing properties.

“It has been a privilege to work with One YMCA and to support the development of the Peartree Campus” says CAF Bank Relationship Director, Neil Cadwick.

“From my first visit in 2021 through to seeing the completed project, I have been struck by their dedication to helping young people and all the work they do for their whole community.”

The impact

The new Peartree Campus offers safe, secure and high‑quality supported accommodation, with 100 modern, self‑contained studio apartments.

Alongside safe and secure accommodation, Peartree Campus residents are also supported by a team of five specialist support workers and volunteers. Support includes help with resettlement, mental health, and issues related to drug and alcohol use, as well as recreational activities designed to build social skills.

“This incredible campus will help enable our inspirational colleagues to support residents to rebuild their lives, having experienced homelessness, and develop the tools to regain their independence”, says Guy.

Since opening, Peartree Campus residents are benefitting from its landscaped, outdoor spaces, and its low‑impact environmental design, reflecting One YMCA’s commitment to sustainability and a greener future.

“Supporting charities is at the heart of every decision we make at CAF Bank, and I’m delighted to have worked with them to deliver the new Peartree Campus”, comments CF Bank’s Regional Director for the Southern Region, Scott Newman.

“It was a privilege to attend its launch event and learn more of how it will help to the transform the lives of young people from across the region.”

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