Dot said, "I had wanted to foster but my circumstances changed just as I was about to be accepted. I saw the advert for Nightstop hosts and had a four bedroomed house so I knew I could help a young person".
When a young person at risk of homelessness is placed with Dot, she likes to take time to get to know them, asking them what their typical day looks like, what they like to eat, their values and opinions. In the mornings during the placement when the young person is not in work or college, she says, "I get their breakfast for them or show them how to make something for themselves. I like that bit". It's this kind of one-to-one support and the help with developing independent living skills that makes the hosted accommodation model so unique and valuable and makes such a difference for young person.
We asked Dot what she had gained from being a volunteer host. She said, "It has made me reflect on how I was brought up, how lucky I was even though you don't realise it at the time. I experienced a period of homelessness for a very short while...I realised how hard it is, even with family offering their sofas".
What's Dot's advice to anyone considering becoming a volunteer host? "Do it!" she said. "It's enjoyable, satisfying and rewarding to help a young person in need".
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer host and live in Wyre Forest or South Worcestershire, call 01562 743111 to find out more about this unique and rewarding role.
Interview with Dot was originally recorded in June 2020.