Grandmother makes room for young homeless

SASH prevents young people from becoming homeless by working with volunteer ‘hosts’ who offer a spare room to help young people in need.

The charity provides emergency nightstop and longer-term supported lodgings services for 16-25-year-olds across North Yorkshire. Its focus is on keeping vulnerable young people safe and providing the support needed to prevent long-term homelessness.

Angela, who has helped eight young people, said: “What has surprised me is how lovely they all are and how a lot of them have ended up in this situation.

“I think the work SASH does is just invaluable. If SASH wasn’t there, I’d probably be offering these young people money on a bench when I walk past, or a warm drink. And once you’re in that way of life, it’s just a downward circle.”

Since expanding its work in the area last year, SASH has seen an increase in demand in Harrogate and urgently needs more volunteers to come forward.

Hosts offer their spare room, and work alongside the charity to provide the support the young person needs in order to move on independently.

Amber Seaver, SASH Support Worker in Harrogate says: “Helping these young people as soon as possible after they have been made homeless is crucial to avoid long-term homelessness and ensure they never end up rough-sleeping.”

Phone 01904 652043 to volunteer.