Open Door
YMCA Open Door offers vulnerable young people safe accommodation with Host Families – individuals, couples and families who live in the Black Country.
Without a safe home and the guidance of caring, responsible adults many young people lose their way. The Open Door Project provides young people with the stability they need to continue with their education and transition into responsible adults.
Similar to temporary fostering, a young person placed with a Host will receive a package of support from YMCA to help them gain the confidence and skills they need to become independent adults.
Many young people in the Black Country are unable to live at home with their family for a variety of reasons – bereavement, overcrowding, family breakdown or risk of abuse. At this age most young people still receive the care and support of their parents.
Young people unable to live at home can be extremely vulnerable. They may appear confident and ‘streetwise’ but the reality is very different. They become isolated, lonely and lack self-esteem, missing out on educational and social opportunities that others of the same age take for granted.
Do you have a spare room?
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There are two types of lodgings available through Open Door
Supported Lodgings through YMCA Open Door tend to be longer term placements, similar to fostering and can last between one month and up to two years.
The young person will make a contribution towards food and other household bills and you will receive a weekly allowance from YMCA.
Nightstop provides safe emergency accommodation for homeless young people aged 16-25 in the homes of approved volunteer hosts.
Volunteer Hosts are paid an allowance of £20 per night to cover their costs. The young person is provided an evening meal, bed for the night, breakfast, laundry facilities and basic toiletries. They can also talk to a supportive Host.
A placement can be overnight or up to two weeks and can mark the first step out of homelessness for a young person. Hosts are never alone in supporting the young person, the YMCA will be on hand if extra or more specific support is required.
Looking for housing?
If you are 16-18 and looking for housing or would like to help someone with a housing need, please complete the form and our team will find the best way to support you.
Could you offer a spare room?
Could you offer your spare room to a homeless teenager?
As well as a spare room in a safe home and a caring disposition, Open Door Hosts will need:
Why should you become an Open Door Host?
It is immensely rewarding to see a young person develop into a responsible adult who is making the most of the opportunities you have opened up for them. It is a chance for you to use your resources and skills to make your community a better place for everyone.
Hosts are never alone in supporting the young person, YMCA staff will be on hand if extra or more specific support is required.
Could you offer a spare room?
Could you become a host?
If you have a spare room, caring heart and would like to know more about becoming a YMCA Host, please apply below and our team will be in touch.