YCSA Frequently Asked Questions
Who does YCSA support?
YCSA supports Black and Minority Ethnic, refugee and asylum seeking children, young people and their families across Glasgow. We work with individuals and families tackling poverty and who may be experiencing trauma, inequality, racism, social isolation or barriers to accessing support.
What services does YCSA provide?
We provide culturally responsive mental health and wellbeing support, creative and therapeutic interventions, family centred services, ESOL provision, advocacy and community based activities. Our services are trauma informed, inclusive and designed to meet the needs of the communities we serve.
Are YCSA’s services free?
Yes. All YCSA services are free for children, young people and families. Our work is funded through grants and partnerships so that support can be accessed without financial barriers.
What is Canvas of Hope?
Canvas of Hope is YCSA’s flagship mental health and wellbeing programme. It delivers specialist arts based psychotherapy and creative therapeutic support for children, young people and their families in schools and community settings. The programme supports emotional expression, healing and resilience at both individual and family level.
Do you work with families as well as young people?
Yes. YCSA takes a whole family approach. We recognise that supporting children and young people often means supporting parents and carers too. Our work includes family wellbeing, advocacy and practical support alongside individual services for young people.
How can someone access YCSA’s services?
Support can be accessed through self referral, referral by a school or professional, or through partner organisations. If you are unsure which service is appropriate, please contact us and we will guide you.
Do you work with schools and other organisations?
Yes. YCSA works in partnership with schools, community organisations, health and social care services and other statutory partners. We deliver services in schools and community settings and value collaborative, partnership led working.
Are your services culturally appropriate?
Yes. Cultural understanding and responsiveness are central to YCSA’s work. We aim to ensure our services respect cultural identity, lived experience and language needs, and that children, young people and families feel safe, understood and valued.
How does YCSA keep children and families safe?
Safeguarding is a top priority at YCSA. We follow robust safeguarding policies and procedures. Staff and volunteers are PVG-checked as appropriate and receive safeguarding training to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
How is personal information handled?
YCSA takes data protection seriously. Personal information is handled lawfully and securely in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. More information is available in our Privacy Policy.
How can I work in partnership with YCSA
We welcome partnership opportunities with schools, community groups, funders and other organisations. If you are interested in working with YCSA, please contact us via the Contact page.
Still need help or have a question?
If you need more information or are unsure where to start, please contact us at enquiries@ycsa.org.uk and a member of the team will respond.
