Homelessness charity facing rising costs launches patron scheme

Nightsafe, a charity which has supported young homeless people across Blackburn with Darwen for more than three decades, is hoping to tackle its budget deficit by launching a patron scheme for businesses.

The charity offers a night shelter for emergency accommodation, as well as a day centre providing hot meals and clean clothes. Its six housing projects across Blackburn with Darwen give young people the opportunity to have a new start in life.

Nightsafe's services were accessed at least 24,000 times in the last 12 months by young people at risk, providing more than over 15,000 safe nights off the street.

Over the years, Nightsafe has seen the cost of running its essential services climb to over £1m a year. Despite the team’s efforts, the charity is facing a budget deficit.

It is now seeking businesses who can pledge at least £1,000 to ensure that it can continue to give young people facing homelessness a safe place to turn.

Jan Larkin, Nightsafe’s chief executive, said: "Although we are based in Blackburn and Darwen, our support extends across wider Lancashire.

"The young people we help often arrive with nothing more than the clothes on their back. Your donations will help us continue to provide free, essential services and enable these young individuals to take back control of their lives.”

The three patron levels are hero for those that pledge between £1,000 and £5,000, Champion (£5,000 - £10,000) and Legacy (£10,000 upwards).