Not only have these properties offered young professionals cheaper living rates, but they have provided them with a safe haven after many escaped poor shared homes.
The new homes, created by the YMCA Black Country Group, situated in Hamstead, West Bromwich, and are comprised of 26 one-bedroom studio apartments and communal facilities.
Left, YMCA Black Country housing officer Foreda Parvin with resident Henrietha Ladan.
They’re aimed at young professionals typically aged between 18 to 35 or young people in full time education or training. The new apartment block is listed as Y-Living which gives residents the opportunity to connect with people in similar situations.
Since moving into the homes, residents have had nothing but positive things to say.
Nurse Henrietha Ladan moved into one of the suits after relocating from Kent for work. She said: ‘my job has a lot of responsibility so it is nice to come home to somewhere comfortable where I can relax. I like having my own space and would recommend moving here as people are friendly and from the same age group as each other.
‘I was previously in a house share, but it was a bad experience so when I was checking for homes to view, I was pleased to see there was a new build available from YMCA Black Country as I have always wanted to live in one. It is really clean; everyone respects each other, and the YMCA helped me with my application so I really happy to be among the first to move in.’
Customer service advisor Adesewa Ayoola was also among the first to move in during July, having relocated from Coventry. She said: ‘I only came to have a look, but I loved the area and was so pleased to move in. It is affordable and serene, so it felt like it was meant to be.
‘Coming from a shared apartment to have my own home, I have loved having all this room to myself. It is perfect. The staff are lovely and really take care of the tenants.’
On the topic of affordability, Y-Living offers one single monthly payment that covers rent, heating, electric, water and wi-fi alongside a YMCA Incentives package including free gym usage in West Bromwich.
Sally Cowan, Chief Officer at YMCA Black Country Group, said: ‘We are thrilled to offer our largest selection of properties for young professionals as well as families at 235 Hamstead Road, following the development of an additional 26 homes.
‘At YMCA Black Country Group, we are committed to providing young adults with safe, high quality and affordable accommodation with a landlord they can trust. The positive feedback from tenants has been welcome as we support them in being connected to the Black Country community as they build their future lives.’
As the future of housing continues to be debated nationally, the YMCA Black Country Group, which is celebrating its 180th anniversary, continue to provide good-quality affordable homes for those most in need.
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