A charity is urgently seeking hosts to provide safe homes for young people at risk of homelessness.
Step by Step is calling for people in Basingstoke to help tackle the growing issue of homelessness among young people, especially care leavers.
The charity says the rising cost of living, stagnant wages and stricter mortgage criteria are making it increasingly difficult for young people to secure housing.
This is even more challenging for care leavers, who often lack family support.
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The charity said hosts are fully involved in the matching process, ensuring that only young people they are comfortable with will move into their home.
They are not expected to be parents but instead offer guidance, stability and encouragement as young people develop the life skills they need to thrive.
To learn more about becoming a host or to donate, visit www.stepbystep.org.uk/basing-heroes.
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Nineteen-year-old Lydia, who lost her parents at a young age, knows first-hand the impact a supportive home can have.
She said: "Without Step by Step, my life could have gone in a completely different direction.
"I’ve struggled with my mental health over the years, and there was a time I didn’t think I’d make it past 16.
"Thanks to my host’s support, I’m now working in an office and living independently."
Hosts receive full training, ongoing support and financial assistance to ensure they can provide a safe and welcoming home.
Basingstoke local Alex, who is a host with Step by Step, said: "Our children had flown the nest, and we were left with an empty room and a very quiet house.
"Realising that we could make life easier for somebody else is what inspired us to start."
Step by Step is looking for more hosts in Basingstoke.
If you have a spare room and the willingness to make a difference, you could provide a life-changing opportunity for a young person in need.
For those unable to host, donations help fund vital services such as counselling and life-skills training, empowering young people to build a brighter future.
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