Depaul Nightstop UK Launch 2008
Paul Marriott, Chief Officer of the Depaul Trust, told delegates that he saw the addition of Nightstop as a very positive step towards what could only lead to a better range, and improved quality, of services for homeless young people. He informed the delegates that there are already 50 affiliated schemes across the country and the aim is to develop, not just geographically but also, by making Nightstop accessible to a wider population of homeless young people.
Helen Keats, Policy Advisor Homelessness at Communities and Local Government, who agreed at a late date to stand in for Ian Wright, Parliamentary Under-Secretary responsible for homelessness, welcomed the opportunity to be involved in the event. Helen spoke of the voluntary sector local authorities and Government working together to reach Government targets set for 2010 and the need for a client centred approach acknowledging the contribution that young people themselves can make towards finding the solutions to alleviate the misery of youth homelessness. One good example of the Government and the voluntary sector working together is evidenced by the development of the good practice website, under the auspices of the National Youth Homelessness Project, containing valuable information for local authorities, and other agencies, working with homeless young people. For more information use the link below.
Helen said, ‘I was pleased to see so many stakeholders at the launch of the new partnership between Depaul Trust and Nightstop UK, and am confident that the new organisation will continue to build on their good work, over many years, on the issue of tackling and preventing youth homelessness.’
Two young people Stacie and Janet, who have both experienced homelessness, and received support from Wyre Forest Nightstop, shared some of their experiences and told delegates how much they appreciated the support given by the scheme and its volunteer hosts. Both Stacie and Janet enjoyed the opportunity to speak out for themselves and for other young people and would like to be involved in developing proposals for working with those young people at risk of homelessness through projects such as workshops in schools and the development of information and guidance for young people who find themselves with nowhere to live. Stacie said, ‘I really enjoyed participating in the launch. Youth homelessness is hard because you don’t know where to turn or who to talk to. The Government has lots of plans and still you find yourself in this situation. More needs to be done to raise awareness and educate children on what to do if they find themselves homeless. They need to know what the problems are and what their rights are before they are in that situation.’
These two young people are part of a group who have recently made their own DVD, available to buy at a cost of £5.00
Alison Gelder, Chief Executive of Housing Justice, said, ‘Births are always exciting events and it was a real pleasure to be a witness at the birth of Depaul Nightstop UK. It bodes well for the future that equal prominence was given to the voices of service users and to Helen Keats, a special advisor from Communities and Local Government. I look forward to a productive working relationship between Housing Justice and this new kid on the youth homelessness block.’
‘I personally felt the launch went well, enough time in the beginning to have refreshments after travelling, enough time at the end to network and get to know other, well chosen speakers who spoke about things that matter. What more could anyone ask.’ Joyce Thomas, Carmarthenshire Nightstop
‘It is always inspiring to have contributions from young people who have been supported in a time of need and are now looking forward to a bright future. Many thanks to Stacie and Janet for sharing their stories with us.’ Sue Trenerry, Manager Depaul Nightstop UK
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