Very soon Bradford Nightstop will be offering its 5000th bednight to a local young person who is homeless.

This shocking figure is a reminder of the serious problem of homelessness in Bradford and the scale of the problem in the 21st century where many people don't believe that homelessness is a problem in cities around the UK outside London.

We want to tell people that it is a BIG issue that needs to be addressed and acted on by everyone. However, at the same time we want to celebrate that over the 15 years since the birth of Bradford Nightstop we have received approximately 10,000 referrals from 16-25 year olds in the Bradford area who are homeless at the time of referral. Our service which provides overnight accommodation in the homes of trained volunteers relies on acts of trust and kindness on the part of the Host AND the young person.

At Bradford Nightstop we want to recognise this and celebrate that in a modern world portrayed by the media as one filled with chaos and fear that trust, kindness and belief in humanity is still alive in Bradford today. Homeless vulnerable young people, who are often in difficulty or at times of change are welcomed into households for a bed and a meal and a listening ear if it's needed. This vital service is what we want to celebrate, amidst the problem of homelessness is a hopeful light that things will and must improve in the future.