A WYRE Forest charity who supports young people who become homeless from family breakdowns have been awarded a Big Lottery Reaching Communities Grant.

Wyre Forest Nightstop and Mediation Scheme has been awarded a grant of £232,537 for their Nightstop Plus project.

Through provision of temporary accommodation with host families and family mediation, the project aims to improve the life chances of disadvantaged homeless young people aged between 16 to 25 by offering stability and re-strengthening the family unit.

Through increased advice, support and sign-posting to appropriate agencies, it also aims to tackle associated issues including alcohol and drug abuse to improve their physical and mental well-being.

Judith Ford, Wyre Forest Nighstop coordinator, said: “We are thrilled to have been given this grant.

“It enables us to offer a service to some of the most disadvantaged young people in Wyre Forest.

“Without a secure, safe home, life can be very challenging for these young people. We aim to help them find that home and support them as they go forward into independent living.

“We are very fortunate in receiving support from the community to help these young people whether through the offer of a spare room or donations of food, toiletries and other essential items.

“Together with our partner agencies and volunteers, we will continue to develop the charity to ensure that no young person has to sleep in unsafe conditions and is given the opportunity to access appropriate accommodation.

“We are very grateful to Kidderminster and District Youth Trust, who have given us a base and invaluable advice and support.

“We look forward to the next three years, with support from the Big Lottery, to make a difference to the lives of our young, homeless people.”

Lyn Cole, Big Lottery Fund England director, said: “Families including our extended families help keep us together in our own communities, so it is great to see today so many projects across the region working to bring generations together and providing support to families needing that extra bit of support during difficult times.”

Wyre Forest Nightstop was set up in 2005 and will celebrate their 10-year anniversary this year.

The charity is always looking for volunteers, particularly in the areas of finance and information technology. If you are interesting in volunteering for the charity, email wfnightstop@btconnect.com.