YMCA Scotland

21/06/2026

We couldn't be more delighted to be sponsoring Bruin as part of the Bear's Big Adventure Trail, organised by YMCA Tayside! Keep your eyes peeled for Monday!

BRUIN our Cathedral Bear has arrived! Thanks to our friends at YMCA Tayside and Bears Big Adventure Trail! Bear Blessing after the 11am Sung Mass tomorrow 🐻

Bear's Big Adventure Trail 2026 https://share.google/7s07cCSNxji606jZp

20/06/2026

On behalf of Scotland’s young men
An open letter to the Men of the Tartan Army in Boston

Dear Tartan Army,

This week you changed the temperature of online conversations. At a time when our feeds are often dominated by division, outrage and algorithms which are designed to bring our the worst in people, you stood apart.

Across Boston, we saw over 20,000 Scotland fans descend on a city and meet its people with humour, kindness and charm. We have joined the rest of Scotland to watch on in pride, as you have built community and made a city feel safer with your presence.

The Tartan Army is more than just men and the YMCA is for all young people, but we want to address the very real impact the actions of the men in the Tartan Army will have on Scotland’s young men and boys.

For more than 180 years, the YMCA has been at the forefront of working with Scotland’s young people. In 2026, we know that many of our young men are struggling to find their role in the world. They have been fed a narrow view of masculinity, built around status, wealth, self-interest and looking after yourself first and foremost. We have seen this how damaging these archetypes are for young men’s mental health and the way they navigate the world.

We have been struggling how to find new positive role models that young Scottish men would respect enough to take their lead from. This week, you stepped into that role.

You showed an entire generation of young Scottish men what it means to be a force for good. You have been exemplary fans, caring neighbours and impeccable stewards for the reputation of Scotland’s men. Through tens of thousands of small acts towards the common good, you have represented the very best of our nation on a world stage and shown that there is strength in personal responsibly, without sacrificing your ability to have a good time.

The impact of your actions will stay in the consciousness of our young men for many years to come. This matters. Your display of positive masculinity, has provided a road map for young men and boys who look up to you.

On behalf of Scotland’s young men, we want to thank you.

Sincerely,

YMCA Scotland

Colin MacFarlane
National Programmes Director

03/06/2026

Great to be at the ever brilliant 2026 celebrating youth work across Scotland that changes lives every day

03/06/2026

The YMCA has been working in Scottish communities for over 180 years. Whilst the Y was officially started in the centre of London, existing young men’s groups had already sprung up in places like Glasgow, Paisley and Greenock. These groups then joined the YMCA movement, which would go on to become the world’s largest non-uniformed youth charity.

08/05/2026

🔻 Mark Healy has been elected to the Board of the European Youth Forum — the largest platform for youth participation in Europe.

For the first time, YMCA has a seat on the Board. This is a significant milestone for our movement and for the young people we represent across the continent.

Mark (YMCA Ireland) has been a consistent voice for young people within the YMCA. He brings real experience in youth leadership, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration.

At YMCA Europe, we have seen first-hand how he works: grounded, strategic, and focused on results. That is exactly what young people need at the European level right now.

🙌We stand behind him in this role — and we look forward to actively contributing to bring young people to the heart of the decision-making process and stand up for youth rights.

07/05/2026

Dear Young People of Scotland,

The polls close at 10pm. Don’t be anxious; voting is never cringe. If you’re not sure how to get from the gates to marking an X in the box, polling station helpers are there to help you.

Use your vote. It’s your future!

Best,scot

#2026

30/04/2026

It’s Taylor’s turn to whisk you away! This time you’re being taken over the archipelagos of Sweden to Campacity! Stay tuned to find out exactly what Campacity is and how a Taylor fairs without her emotional support beverages!

29/04/2026

What can I say; it’s not as easy as it looks.

Meaningful Work. That’s what young people told us they cared about. They want to be able to earn a living so they can invest in their life and thrive. We all know how difficult it can be to find a job that treats you with respect and provides you a salary to pay for the cost of living in 2026.

has a portfolio of skills development programmes that give young people the experience and confidence they need to get onto the career ladder.