SASH is celebrating 30 years of preventing youth homelessness – marking three decades of life-changing support for vulnerable young people across York and the surrounding areas.
The charity has planned a series of special events for its 30th anniversay, including a Gala Ball on 2 October, the SASH Sleepout at York Racecourse on 16 October, and the launch of a new SASH Business Club bringing together local companies to support the charity’s work.
Founded in the mid-1990s by a group of concerned local parents, SASH (Safe and Sound Homes) began as a small volunteer-led project offering emergency accommodation to young people with nowhere safe to stay.
Determined that no young person should have to sleep on the streets, they launched a Nightstop service that placed young people in the homes of trained hosts.
What started as a simple community response quickly demonstrated the power of local people coming together to support young people in crisis.
Over the past three decades, SASH has grown into a well-established charity supporting young people aged 16–25, while remaining true to its founding mission: ensuring every young person has access to a safe place to stay and the support they need to move forward with confidence.
Today, young people are referred to SASH by local authorities and partner agencies when they are facing homelessness. While some may sleep rough, many are ‘sofa surfing’ with friends or living in unstable or unsafe environments.
These circumstances can place them at serious risk of dropping out of education, losing employment, or experiencing exploitation or abuse.
SASH provides immediate emergency accommodation through its Nightstop service, placing young people with trained hosts during times of crisis. For those who need longer-term support, the charity’s Supported Lodgings programme provides accommodation alongside one-to-one support to help young people build independence and stability.
Alongside housing, SASH also runs an Enhancement Programme, which offers opportunities that many young people take for granted. Participants can access counselling, social activities, gym memberships and new experiences designed to boost confidence, develop life skills and widen horizons. Young people themselves help shape the programme, working alongside staff, local businesses and community partners.
The impact of the charity can be seen in the stories of those it has supported.
Eden said: “I came to SASH after both my mum and dad sadly passed away and our family home had to be sold as part of probate.
“I loved my room at my host Helen’s house. It was really cosy and the bed was so comfortable. I’d never really had my own space before going to SASH, so I really appreciated having a room of my own. With the support of SASH, I now have my own place and have learned how to manage my money.”
SASH needs to raise approximately £500,000 each year to deliver its services. Local people can support the charity in many ways, from taking part in fundraising challenges to organising community events.
CEO Philippa Robson said: “As we celebrate 30 years of supporting young people at risk of homelessness, we are focused firmly on the future.
“We are committed to strengthening partnerships and developing innovative services so we can provide long-term stability and life-changing support for every young person who comes to us.”
For more information or to get involved, visit the SASH website here.
