West of England Nightstop

West of England Nightstop is run by Caring at Christmas to provide emergency accommodation to vulnerable young people aged 16 – 25 in Bristol and surrounding areas who might otherwise be placed inappropriately in B&Bs or sleep rough. Accommodation is provided by approved Volunteer Hosts who offer a room in their home. Young people are referred through approved referral agencies, e.g. the Housing Advice Team (The HAT) through their Customer Service Points, Social Services, Connexions and other Youth Housing providers and homeless charities/organisations.

What we do

  • Provide a safe space for vulnerable young people, on an emergency basis, on a night-by-night basis.
  • The hosts offer the young person a private bedroom, an evening meal and breakfast, and access to washing/toilet facilities.
  • Offer the young person help with finding long-term accommodation and signposting to other support services.
  • Recruit, carry out home assessments, CRB check, train support and supervise our hosts.
  • Recruit and train referral agencies that are qualified to risk assess each young person staying on West of England Nightstop.
  • Provide toiletries, pyjamas and dressing gowns for the young person.
  • Provide a supply of clothes for the young person and storage space for their possessions.

How you can help