Spotlight on Hosts

Nightstop offer a unique service working with young people aged 16-25, families, local agencies, schools and youth organisations to reduce the number of young people at risk of experiencing homelessness.

Hosts are at the heart of our organisation, providing a caring and secure environment for young people to ensure they stay safe and off the streets.

A host provides a spare room and a willingness to share their home with a young person.  Hosts can be families, couples or single people.

Jane who is an Emergency Accommodation Host has been Hosting for 2 years says: “I think that it is particularly important for young people to get the best possible start in life and sometimes they need a hand in difficult circumstances.  I have been very lucky in my life and I wanted to help others who are less fortunate.

All the young people who have stayed with us have been polite and outgoing and it has been a pleasure to have them stay with us.  We have also tried to involve them in activities that we are doing which they seem to enjoy.

We only have a young person to stay with us when it is convenient for us and so it has not impacted at all on our day to day life, other than to give us a sense that hopefully we are helping someone."

Jayne was asked what she would say to anyone who was thinking about becoming a Host: “It is a little daunting at first to welcome a stranger into your house but as soon as they arrive that is dispelled.  It has been rewarding to see a young person in an obviously difficult situation begin to talk about their experiences and then the next day to look a little less stressed, once they have had a chance to relax a little.  I have also been impressed by the work of the Nightstop staff who do a great job of arranging more long term arrangements for the young people.  Take the plunge!  It is a very rewarding experience and Nightstop are always there to help with any questions you may have or help you may need."

We are keen to recruit Hosts from across Worcestershire, Alcester, Stratford-upon-Avon and surrounding regions. If you are interested to find out more information on Hosting for Emergency Accommodation or Supported Lodgings then please give us a call to find out more details. 

Emergency Accommodation Hosts are volunteers who provide accommodation on a night by night basis and will receive full training and 'out of pocket' expenses.

Supported Lodgings Hosts provide accommodation for periods of between four weeks minimum and nine months maximum will receive full training and support and receive a weekly fee.

Interested?  Please call Susan for more information on 01527 66036 or email ssadler@redditchnightstop.co.uk