A NEW recruit for the charity SASH has the problem of youth homelessness in Ryedale in her sights - and needs volunteer hosts in the Malton area.

Nicky Taylor-Olsson, who has just joined the homelessness prevention organisation as a support worker, will be helping some of the most vulnerable young people in Ryedale and Scarborough, with her first challenge to find more volunteers to join SASH (Safe and Sound Homes).

SASH offers accommodation and support for vulnerable 16 to 25-year-olds with nowhere safe to stay through its emergency Nightstop and longer-term Supported Lodgings schemes. Both Nightstop and Supported Lodgings rely entirely on volunteer hosts with a spare room.

Ms Taylor-Olsson, a Pickering resident for 34 years, said: "Being in a home environment with dedicated support is the best solution for most young people who find themselves homeless. Thanks to our volunteers, we are able to offer young people the help they need to regain some stability in their lives, ensure they remain in education or employment and can start to plan for their future.

"We are particularly short of hosts in the Malton area. No special skills are needed, you just need a spare room, an open mind and a willingness to help young people in your community.

"I would love to speak to any people in the local area who think they could help."

Ms Taylor-Olsson is well-acquainted with the problem. For the last 14 years she has worked for Ryedale YMCA and Ryedale District Council, where she works as the young person's homeless prevention officer.

New volunteers will be joining a network of more than 90 hosts throughout the region, who all have a dedicated support worker to help them carry out their role.

The charity offers full training, expenses and ongoing support to its volunteers, along with regular opportunities for further development. For more information, visit sash-uk.org.uk or phone 01904 652043.