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First Staff Conference of 2026 – Celebrating 60 Years of Impact

June 18, 2026

On Thursday 11th June, our staff came together for the annual YPAS Summer Staff Conference – a day of learning, reflection and celebration as we marked a major milestone in our history.

The conference opened with a warm welcome from our CEO, Monique Collier, before staff took part in an interactive LGBTQ+ training session delivered by our LGBTQ+ Lead Meg and her team – Connie, Jake and Lilith. The session explored key terminology, the difference between gender identity and sexuality, and the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ young people. This session helped to strengthen knowledge and confidence in creating safer, more affirming spaces for the young people we support.

After lunch, the afternoon was dedicated to celebrating 60 years of YPAS. The YPAS Legacy session took colleagues on a journey through our history – from our early days to the present – highlighting just how far we’ve come and the thousands of children, young people and families we’ve had the privilege to support along the way.

A huge thank you to the wonderful staff members who contributed videos for our 60th birthday – your messages truly captured the heart and spirit of YPAS, and it was moving to see so many of you share what this organisation means to you.

One of our Peer Research team members Keiron shared his 60th Birthday photography video, which beautifully captured the spirit of YPAS through photographs.

Throughout the afternoon, colleagues participated in a range of activities designed to bring our history to life. There were crafts activities and a reflection walk both were very popular. this gave staff time to pause and think about their own journeys with YPAS. The digital archive activity was another highlight – a hands-on opportunity to explore our history and make predictions for what our service might look like in 40 years time. The contents of these activities will be placed in both a physical and digital time capsule, which will be stored in Liverpool Central Library – scheduled to be opened on our 100th anniversary in 2066.

Each table within the space was decked out with beautiful “era” themed table centres – each one a nod to a different decade of YPAS’s history (beautifully put together)). And in true YPAS style, we also found time for a World Cup sweep, with staff drawing their picks ahead of the tournament.

As we look ahead to the next chapter of YPAS, the conference was a powerful reminder of the dedication, passion, and care that runs through every team across our organisation. Thank you to everyone who made the day so special.

Here’s to 60 years – and to the many more to come.

Staff Singing Happy Birthday YPAS

Highlights from the day

Thank you for watching!

From the Marketing and Participation Team ❤️

I want to thank Caz and Paula for an amazing 10 weeks. I have learnt so much in such a small amount of time. Understanding why my son shows certain behaviours. I also have learnt a lot about myself. Home is a much happier place. Best course I have been on and would definitely recommend to other parents. Again, can’t thank Caroline and Paula enough No judgment just understanding and so caring and helpful.
Parent/Carer

To Kate, thank you so much for everything, you've helped me so much. Thank you for helping me realise just how beautiful everything is.
Young Person

I can’t thank Lucy enough. She went over and above my expectations. Extending Eve’s sessions and having some real breakthroughs with her. She finished off with a really lovely party for Eve that included all of her favourite things. Well above and beyond.
Parent/Carer

I really enjoyed my time with Jeanette. She made me feel heard, valued and always remained professional. I was nervous about starting to talk therapy, but she immediately put me at ease and allowed me to get the most out of my sessions from the get-go. I would recommend her services to anyone, she’s friendly, personable and takes so much pride in her work. A real asset to the YPAS team.
Young Person

Seedlings Anna and Emma are amazing they put children 1st and are always willing to support and help families. They build amazing relationships with children, my daughter feels comfortable with both Emma and Anna and was able to communicate her thoughts and feelings which is really difficult for Amelia to do. I have only had a positive experience working with seedlings.

Parent/Carer

I felt very well listened to and I always felt like I could come here after a bad day and just talk to Jade about my feelings and not feel like I was getting judged.

Young Person

Lauren Marsh has provided counselling for my daughter. She started counselling and was unhappy with various things and needed an outside source of support. Lauren provided this service with sensitivity and care, which has helped my daughter come out of her shell and discuss the things that have been bothering her. Lauren has offered an insight on my daughters’ parents on certain concerns that have been raised, during the sessions. As a dad, I can see a huge difference in my daughter’s general mood. She seems to manage her emotions well and is more open about various things that are bothering her. I am so grateful for Lauren’s care and support. My daughter has been comfortable enough to open up. Lauren also raised concerns about progressing into grief counselling, which I felt was incredibly considerate, ensuring mu daughters mental wellbeing was catered for outside of counselling sessions.

Parent/Carer

The sessions with Caitlin in school helped me to have someone to talk to without judgement but an outsider observation.

Young Person

Dear Meg and the team. I cannot express enough the gratitude, thanks and praise for your organisation. Meg: thank you for the time spent with my granddaughter and myself. Your knowledge, professionalism and kindness were outstanding. Reception: So kind and caring. Enquiries dealt with compassionately with excellent signposting. A big pat on the back to you all. I dread to think where this city would be without your organisation.

Parent/Carer

Jodie was very nice and helpful when I didn't know what to do about my anxiety. I am finished now and feel confident to manage my anxiety myself and know a lot about it to help others, I feel a lot less anxious

Young Person