YMCA Norfolk celebrated its inspirational staff and chief executive Tim Sweeting outlined its future direction at a day for all colleagues at the King's Centre in Norwich on April 19.

New chairman, Philip Macdonald, told staff: 'We want a society which really supports and develops young people. We can make a difference to their lives and I see in front of me a group of determined and talented people who can inspire them to reach their full potential.'

Chief executive, Tim Sweeting said: 'In our work over many years with young people struggling with issues such as homelessness, addictions and family breakdown, we have seen that with earlier intervention there is much greater opportunity to obtain positive outcomes.

'As a result we have expanded our services to engage children and families to maximise the numbers of Norfolk children and young people who can fulfil their potential and to prevent them from requiring more specialist services such as our homelessness services.'

Tim highlighted a couple of developing areas of YMCA Norfolk's work such as moving into the delivery of day care nurseries, providing more accommodation for young workers by working with social landlords and through buying properties and a continuation of its developing mental health work.

Staff from across the Christian charity were recognised in its annual staff awards and included:

Staff Member of the Year - Ben Hampton. A committed staff member, a good leader, performing brilliantly in any situation, positive and a friendly person to be around.

Engagement Worker of the Year (Housing) – Kathy Watts. From Community Housing in King's Lynn, Kathy's clients all showed an average 114% improvement from their first star to the most recent star.

Engagement Worker of the Year (Communities) – Joe Fisher. A great role model not just for his colleagues but for the young people he supports in schools and the communities.

Norfolk Spirit Award Ann Symonds. Goes above and beyond and delivers consistent high quality work. A calm and tranquil influence sometimes in the midst of apparent mayhem.

Team of the Year – HR. Professional, supportive and accessible, steady and strong.