Ryder House provides safe, welcoming and supportive housing for 34 young people in furnished flats located in central Tunbridge Wells. Three of these are parent & child units and the remaining 31 flats are for ages 16+.

Our professional team of dedicated YMCA Housing Support Workers help each resident address issues or problems, develop vital personal, social & life skills; look for training, secure work and/or meaningful volunteer opportunities; and gain self-confidence & skills to live independently and take their place as a valued member of our wider community.  In some cases residents are able to re-integrate into the family home but on a more appropriate adult-to-adult footing.

For residents, Ryder House is more than a flat or even a home.  They actively engage in decision-making, run residents’ meetings & youth inclusion activities; raise funds for special projects and awareness of the needs of other young people in Kent.  All of our residents are able to take part in projects to gain personal skills, team work experience & personal development.

Every day we do inspiring work, supporting young people to belong, contribute and thrive in their local communities. Our projects and programmes are open to all and focus on the following five themes:

  • Employment, education and training
  • Social inclusion
  • Life skills / tenant ready and moving on
  • Health and wellbeing
  • Tenant voice (resident engagement)

We are delighted to have 9 affordable flats near Ryder House – thanks to Habitat for Humanity, The West Kent Quakers and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.  Contact us to find out more about our affordable housing in the Quaker Meeting House on 01892 518505 or email housing@westkentymca.org.uk

How to apply or refer someone for supported housing:

Aged 16–18, please contact: KCC Children’s social services: call 03000 411111 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm) or 03000 419191 (outside working hours & ask for duty team)

Aged 18+, please contact: KCC Adult social services & health: call 03000 416161 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm) or 03000 419191 (outside working hours & ask for duty team)

To access housing at our sites in West Kent

For more information about YMCA Ryder House or The Bridge Trust Project, contact our Housing Support team on 01892 518505 or email housing@westkentymca.org.uk