Nightstop schemes
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
Some parts of the country have special 'Nightstop' schemes for young people aged 16 to 25. These schemes can arrange emergency accommodation for the night with someone who has a spare room.
If you are over 25, you can't use Nightstop but there may be a lodgings scheme in your area. These operate in a very similar way and may be able to find you a place quite quickly.
How does Nightstop work?
Nightstop schemes provide emergency accommodation for young people in the homes of ordinary people who have volunteered to help. You can usually only stay for one night at a time with each host, where you will get a room to yourself, the chance to have a bath or shower, and a meal in the evening and breakfast the following morning.
You will probably be asked to go back to the Nightstop scheme each morning, or to the organisation that found you a place through Nightstop. They can help you look for longer term accommodation or arrange another Nightstop.
Who can use Nightstop?
Nightstop schemes can help most homeless young people aged 16 to 25. However, they won't usually accept people who:
- are currently using drugs or alcohol
- have mental health problems that can't be controlled by medication
- have a recent history of violence, arson or sexual offences, or a serious criminal record.
This is because people who offer their spare rooms to Nightstop schemes wouldn't be able to provide the extra support you may need. If you are in this situation, get advice. There may be a specialist hostel that can help you and you might be entitled to accommodation and support from the council.
How do I get a place?
Not all areas have Nightstop schemes. Contact Depaul Nightstop UK or ask your local Shelter advice centre, Citizens Advice, council or young peoples' project if there is one in your area. If there is one, ask them to put your name forward. They will have to ask you some questions about your situation before they contact the local Nightstop scheme on your behalf. They will need to know, for example, if you are vegetarian or have a medical condition such as diabetes. The information you give them is usually just between you and the person you speak to. They won't tell anyone else unless you agree to it or you are in danger.
What about longer term options?
Using a Nightstop scheme can give you time to look for longer term accommodation. Get advice to find out what your options are. An adviser can look into your situation and may be able to:
- check whether the council's housing and/or social services departments have a legal responsibility to house you
- tell you what benefits you may be entitled to and help you to claim them
- arrange a place in a specialist hostel or foyer for young people
- put you in contact with a local deposit scheme and/or help you apply for a grant or loan to cover rent in advance.
Use our directory to find your nearest Shelter advice centre or Citizens Advice. Their services are free, independent and confidential.
