We are calling on businesses and individuals to transform a shell of a property into a bright modern home for five young people who have faced homelessness

In a DIY SOS-style operation we are appealing for businesses and retailers to donate goods and furniture, trades and volunteers to offer their time; and monetary donations to help fund and furnish the project.

The house in Anchor Avenue, Darwen, was bought by a generous supporter but is in dire need of renovation.

A team of volunteers have started on the preparation work, but other volunteers and trades are needed to turn the shell of a building into a proper home.

When complete, the six-bedroom property will provide a safe haven for five young people, with the sixth bedroom being used by a rotation of Nightsafe staff members, who will be on-site at the property with its residents 24/7.

Our chief executive Jan Larkin said: The Covid pandemic has seen a 30 per cent rise in the number of young people facing living difficulties in the Northwest. During this time Nightsafe has continued to support 160 young people when they have reached crisis point.

We are passionate about providing and giving young people who have had a difficult start in life the tools, knowledge and resources they need to stand on their own two feet.

We want Anchor Avenue to feel like home, not like an institution.

Husband and wife interior design team Heather and Philip German, of Darwen-based My Vinteriors, have donated their services, supplying designs and 3D renderings of how the dream home could look.

Nightsafe want to give the youngsters a real kick-start by providing them with modern furniture and appliances relevant to modern-day living, in-line with the stunning design.

Jan explained: That means providing a comfy sofa they can snuggle into on a windy winter evening. Cupboards and drawers where they can keep their belongings private and safe. A dinner table where they can chat about their day, and a desk where they can revise for exams.

We want the property to be a haven of happiness where they feel like they belong. Simply, we want to give them a place they call home. A place to help give them a fresh start and a path to a more stable future.

Initially, volunteers are needed to carry out electrical work, plastering and decorating, and outside jobs including fencing and laying pavements and a driveway.

Jan said: We have been touched by the generosity and kindness of the people we have approached so far. We hope the people of Blackburn and Darwen will help us to make a house a home.

Businesses and individuals who can offer goods or their services should contact nightsafe@vivapr.co.uk and money donations can be made HERE!