BLACKBURN homeless charity Nightsafe has called for public support as it prepares to reopen their night shelter as lockdown restrictions ease.

Like many charities across the country Nightsafe’s fundraising efforts have been dealt a bitter blow over the past few months by the closure of so many public events.

Now however, the charity has planned for another sponsored sleep in for June 30 and is appealing for donations of spare bedding from the public.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Young people are the heart of everything we do at Nightsafe - but if we don’t raise £100K this year it may mean we are not able to continue to offer these services to those who need it most.

“It is very difficult asking for money, we know there are a lot of incredible causes, but the truth is we have a massive financial hole and we need the support of the community now more than ever.”

These efforts form part of the charity’s ongoing £100k appeal, which aims to make up the funding black hole caused by the pandemic.

Over the past few months the charity has adapted many of its services to the unique conditions that the pandemic has presented and has been pleased by the government’s commitment to sheltering homeless people in order to limit the spread of infections.

However, as lockdown eases and services return to a version of normality, the charity will once again become the only port of call for young people facing homelessness.

Nightsafe has already been able to reopen its day centre for three days a week however, to be able to follow suit with its emergency night shelter will require more help.

As such Nightsafe employees have reached out to the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and have taken to the airwaves, appearing on BBC Radio Lancashire to appeal for further donations.

Staff and volunteers hope that funding can also be used to provide homeless young people with food and warm clothes.

If you have a donation of bedding, including blankets, sheets, quilts, pillows or pillow-cases contact Pam.Holgate@nightsafe.org, or to make a cash donation, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/night-safe.