Archive - Thursday, 10 February 2005


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Volunteers needed to give homes for a night

THE search is on for volunteers in the Cotswolds to give temporary accommodation for young homeless people.

The Gloucestershire Nightstop project is also looking for car drivers, telephone contact operators and a volunteer with administration and computer skills.

Volunteer hosts can be families, couples or single adults who are concerned with the plight of homeless young people. They are given free training, expenses, and can say no to looking after a young person at any time.

Sheila Gardner, the development worker for Gloucestershire Nightstop, says "with more hosts we will be able to offer more young homeless people a bed for a night, and not turn anyone away."

The service, which is currently being expanded into the Cotswold area, is aimed at vulnerable people aged between 16 and 25.

The young people, who are referred by agencies working alongside Nightstop, are accommodated in the homes of approved and trained volunteer hosts while longer-term solutions to their situations are found.

The main cause of homelessness among young people is family or relationship breakdown. For many young people Nightstop is the only alternative to sleeping rough.

It is estimated that about 100,000 young people run away from home every year.

For more information about volunteering with Nightstop call 01452 331330 and ask to speak to Sheila.

The Children's Society is also looking for volunteers to help vulnerable young people.

The charity needs speakers to communicate the work of the society and promote its network of safe places for young runaways.

Caroline Loden, the charity's volunteer manager says: "Our volunteer speakers play a key role in helping to transform the lives of children who, for whatever reason, haven't had a decent start in life.

"The work is fun and satisfying and you'll make a positive impact on the lives of the country's most isolated children by inspiring others to support our work."

For information about helping the Children's Society call 0845 3001128 or visit www.childrenssociety.org.uk