REDDITCH YMCA is joining forces with housing associations across the Midlands to champion its work in the community.

It is backing a national campaign 'In Business for Neighbourhoods', launched at the National Housing Federation's conference.

Redditch YMCA chief executive Alan Fraser said there was still the perception housing associations only provided poor quality homes for the poor, the deprived and the vulnerable, and little else.

"In Business for Neighbourhoods will show that in reality, housing associations do far more than just build the bricks and mortar and walk away," said Mr Fraser.

"For 25 years, Redditch YMCA has been the biggest voluntary sector provider of community services in the borough and we want to develop these so Redditch can continue to benefit.

"We're delighted the federation is now encouraging other associations to follow the YMCA model."

"We're more than just a provider of community housing," added Mr Fraser.

"We can and do regenerate communities, as well as providing services such as employment and education advice and anti-crime initiatives for young people.

"But without proper levels of funding our work tackling social exclusion and crime could be lost and this would be a tragedy."