The profile of YCA users tends to be one of low employment and a low skills base. These disadvantages are compounded by cultural and language issues, which often makes it difficult for these communities to access mainstream services and organisations. Other issues of concern within the community include the generally poor health of many individuals; high poverty levels; and an increasingly disaffected youth.
In a direct response to this state of affairs, members of the Yemeni Community in Sandwell got together and decided to organise their efforts and activities towards the common objective of bringing the community closer together in mutual support of one another.
After a great deal of formal and informal consultation, it was decided to form the Yemeni Community Association (YCA) as a vehicle that would articulate and manage these newly expressed aspirations and ambitions. Since its inception, the YCA has tackled numerous community issues through partnerships and co-operation with other statutory and voluntary organisations; i.e., Public Health’ Adult Social Care, Education and Community Service (SMBC); Youth Forum; Right Equality Sandwell; Sandwell Council of Voluntary Organisation;