Local homeless charity Nightsafe has Darwen premises revitalised by national housebuilder

A local charity which supports young and at-risk homeless people had its Darwen-based property transformed by housebuilder, Persimmon.

Nightsafe provides safe accommodation and support for young people aged 16 to 25 and after being gifted a house in Darwen 12 months ago, Nightsafe reached out to local businesses asking for their help to improve the property.

National housebuilder Persimmon answered the call for support by providing materials and employees to build a double driveway and landscape the overgrown garden.

Persimmon’s improvements helped rejuvenate the property creating a modern, bright house with space to socialise outside, turning a tired and run-down building into a place ready for six young people to make their home.

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn and Darwen Council, said:

It was great to visit Nightsafe’s property in Darwen recently and see first-hand the fantastic work they are doing to support young, vulnerable homeless people within our local area. I was also delighted to see Persimmon lending a helping hand in the project and committing themselves to support local charities and local people. It is so important that we all work together to leave a positive legacy for the next generation, and Nightsafe is certainly doing just that.

The provision was first set up in 1990 in Blackburn with Nightsafe offering immediate access for young people who have nowhere else to go.

Nicola Roscoe, Nightsafe Operations Manager, said:

It never ceases to amaze me what can be achieved when a community comes together – from volunteers and businesses, we’ve built an amazing home for six young people. Throughout this build, Persimmon kindly donated materials, workmen and time to create a double driveway and renovate the garden – this support will help young people achieve their full potential and become independent. Thank you for being part of the incredible journey.

The charity also featured as part of the Children in Need DIY SOS Blackburn Big Build when the former St Silas Parish Church in Preston New Road became a new facility for young homeless people.

Anthony Mansfield, Managing Director at Persimmon Lancashire, said:

Nightsafe is a fantastic charity that makes an incredible contribution to the local community with their tireless work to support young people. I am thrilled we were able to support their project in Darwen and enjoyed visiting the property recently to meet some of the inspiring young people Nightsafe helps. Seeing local communities come together for projects such as this is brilliant, and I wish everyone involved the very best for the future.