Host

Nightstop Northeast and Westmorland & Furness provides emergency, overnight accommodation for young people between the ages of 16-25 years old, who are at risk of homelessness and have nowhere else to stay.

Nightstop guests are placed in the homes of trained and vetted volunteer hosts, who provide a safe and secure place for the guest to stay that evening. Hosts will provide a private bedroom, an evening meal, breakfast, and a packed lunch the next day (if required). They will also provide facilities to bathe and wash clothes if needed and a friendly face and a listening ear.

Referrals are assessed on an individual basis and are considered on current levels of risk. However, as a rule we are unable to accommodate people who have ongoing substance misuse issues (drugs/alcohol etc.), violent, aggressive, or anti-social behavior, severe mental health issues and people who are at risk of offending.

Throughout someone’s time on Nightstop we continue to support them by working with partner organizations to explore longer term accommodation options.

Hosts are reimbursed £15 per night for all expenses.

Main Tasks:

• To provide clean, safe, basic overnight accommodation for the guest in their own room and at short notice.
• To provide an evening meal and breakfast for the guests using the accommodation.
• To liaise with the Nightstop service team regarding availability and to provide regular feedback after every placement.
• To attend initial training programme prior to undertaking role and attend further training as appropriate.
• To adhere to the terms of Depaul Nightstop policies and its Code of Practice.
• To contribute positively to the continuous development of the service/team.
• To observe clear professional boundaries in our relations with the young people we work with.

Benefits to the Volunteer:

• The volunteer host will receive £15 per night when a guest stays with them, and all genuine out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.
• There are appreciation events to recognize the important contribution that volunteers make.
• Personal & professional development through training, support, and ongoing evaluation.

• Contributing to a service that makes a difference to young people's lives.

Skills

• A basic understanding of the issues young homeless people faces.
• An ability to relate to people on a one to one, non-judgmental basis.
• A desire to work with disadvantaged people.
• A willingness to participate in training and be involved in consultation regarding the role.