the foyer

Located on Wharf Road in Guildford, The Foyer is a purpose-built supported housing development delivered by YMCA DownsLink Group.

Designed to provide a safe and stable environment for young people aged 16 to 25 at risk of homelessness, the scheme offers more than accommodation—it delivers a structured pathway toward independence, education, and employment.

Opened in December 2017, The Foyer comprises approximately 30 self-contained rooms, each with en-suite facilities and shared kitchen spaces. The building has been carefully planned to foster a sense of community, with light-filled corridors, communal lounges, and centrally positioned support offices ensuring both safety and social connection. Residents benefit from wrap-around support, including key-worker sessions, counselling, life skills training, and referrals to education or employment opportunities.

The project was awarded the Guildford Society Design Award in 2018, recognising its thoughtful architectural response and valuable social contribution. It has also received national acclaim through YMCA’s Diversity Award in 2019, in particular for its work with Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children—highlighting the scheme’s commitment to inclusion, support, and integration.

The Foyer stands as a model for how supported housing can be a catalyst for personal transformation. It embodies YMCA DownsLink Group’s mission to deliver safe, supportive, and aspirational spaces for vulnerable young people—combining architectural clarity with life-changing impact. As a multi-award-winning project, it sets a strong precedent for youth-focused housing initiatives across the region.