WYRE Forest Nightstop held their annual general meeting at the Youth House in Kidderminster, which was attended by MP Mark Garnier.

Four young volunteers, previously homeless and helped by the charity, helped with the organisation and running of the event. During the course of the evening they were invited to share their issues and concerns with the audience and they were able to address some of these to Mr Garnier.

Mr Garnier, a keen supporter of the charity for the last four years and has attended many of their community events during this time, said he was impressed by the enthusiasm of the young people present and has offered them work experience in his office.

When one of the young people was asked what difference Nightstop had made to her, she said it was the difference between a home and being on the street and if it wasn’t for the charity she doesn’t know where she would have gone.

Nightstop are currently funded by Wyre Forest District Council and the Big Lottery and are in the process of applying for continuation funding from the Big Lottery as their present grant ends in June 2015.

Judith Ford, coordinator for the charity, said: “We rely heavily on the support of the local community and the kindness and generosity of our volunteers. They truly change the lives of these young people who are often in crisis when they come to us.

“A safe home is vital if they are to lead independent lives and find employment.”

For more information, contact Nightstop on 01562 743111 or email wfnightstop@btconnect.com.