Nightsafe

Nightsafe was set up over 30 years ago in Blackburn. They are a charity that works with young people, aged 16-24, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. They provide accommodation, day centres with information, advice and guidance. They help with emergency needs and work to empower their young people to play a positive part in their community. As part of the services, Nightsafe provides emergency short-term accommodation for young people at their night shelter. The night shelter is open from 5pm-10am every day and can accommodate up to 5 young people at any one time. The young people will stay for a maximum of 9 nights during which time the Nightsafe staff and other local services will assist them in finding longer-term or permanent accommodation for them to move to.  At the same location as the night shelter Nightsafe has an activity based day centre called Platform 5.

Some activities are: The main role of the volunteer is to assist in the running of the night shelter. Volunteers are there to welcome the young people at the night shelter and to create a friendly atmosphere. Core activities include:

• Befriend the young people using the organisation’s services 
• Offer support and advice and provide a listening ear when needed.
• Challenge offensive behaviour including racism, sexism etc.
• Encourage residents to use the facilities in the Shelter and Platform 5.
• Support residents with cooking and washing clothes.
• Help create a link between office staff and residents.
• Act as a positive role model to the young people at Nightsafe