THE NEW Redditch Nightstop was officially opened by town MP Rachel Maclean last Friday.
The charity, which helps young people aged between 16 and 25 who are homeless or facing homelessness, moved to The Old Needle Works, Britten Street, from its base at the Ecumenical Centre where it had been for 20 years.
The move was made possible thanks to a £20,000 donation from an anonymous Redditch company which wanted to support a local cause.
Demand on the service has grown in recent years and the new premises puts Nightstop in a better position
Project manager Susan Sadler said: “It got to the point where we needed to move so we could develop our services.
“It is good that we are still close to the town centre and there is a great community here where we all support each other.”
Mrs Maclean said: “It is an honour to be here.
“I know how hard you work and I’m delighted we have this new premises.
“I want to thank you on behalf of the people of Redditch for all the work you do.
“I wish you well in your new home and I hope Nightstop continues to flourish and goes from strength to strength.”
Nighstop offers emergency accommodation, supported lodgings, a daily drop-in service from 10am to 2.30pm and and an accredited learning programme. It assists young people by teaching them important skills, including dealing with stress, cooking, alcohol and drugs awareness, budgeting, how to lead a healthy lifestyle and crafts.
The charity has 14 host families which offers homes to those who need them.
One example was when a Redditch student who was studying for her a-levels was in danger of being rehoused in Worcester. But, thanks to Nightstop and supported lodgings, she was able to continue her studies in the town and will hopefully be able to stay in those supported lodgings if she gets her desired place at Birmingham University.
One host said: “I have found the scheme good and have been hosting for over ten years.
“I get a lot of support from Nightstop and it is very rewarding.
“I would definitely recommend it to other people.”
Another aspect undertaken by Nightstop is mediation – sometimes the young people just need some respite and then the charity helps resolve any problems and they can go back to the family home.
Call 01527 66036, visit www.redditchnightstop.co.uk or email [email protected] for more information.
