Nightstop launches Spare Room Campaign in Devon

Nightstop Devon, a local charity project, is today launching a 'Spare Room Campaign' in partnership with other Nightstops around the country.

The campaign is in response to the recent huge rises in youth homelessness across the UK of up to 300%. 

Nightstop hosts provide emergency accommodation to young people in the homes of volunteer hosts, members of the public who have a spare room in their house.

Sir Trevor McDonald is a supporter of the Nightstop network and has helped create a video to promote the campaign - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5OmsFeEc38&feature=youtu.be

Kevin Hunter, Nightstop Devon Coordinator said, “We have been running in Exeter for over 10 years and there has never been a more important time for local people to partner with us and sign up to help Devon’s most vulnerable young people. We are also always on the lookout for volunteers. If you think you could give a young person a safe bed for the night, or would like to find out more, we would love to hear from you”.

Most young people who stay on Nightstop have become homeless after falling out with their family, or losing their job. Nightstop aims to ensure that these youngsters are kept safe and not sucked into a cycle of homelessness and rough sleeping. Mark, an 18-year-old from Exeter who stayed on Nightstop said, "I lost my job, I lost my flat and I didn't have the slightest idea what to do. The first time I stayed on Nightstop I was terrified, like 'strangers, oh my God!', but it was really easy staying with such friendly people.

"It put me in the right frame of mind to go out and find a new job. Now I'm working again and moved into my own place. I was in a bad situation, luckily Nightstop was there to help me back on my feet" 

Nightstop hosts are given induction training, ongoing support, and are paid £15 a night in expenses for each night they host. All young people undergo a risk assessment before being placed on the scheme. 

To find out more, please contact Nightstop Devon on 01392 274853 or via www.twitter/nightstopdevon