Andrew and Ali
Each young person is different and it’s a privilege to watch someone sort themselves out and fulfill their potential. We provide the space and stability – they do the hard work and find their way in the world.
“We had thought about being SASH hosts for a while and when we moved to a bigger house, we realised that this was the moment. We are both concerned about the challenges facing some young people and wanted to give them a chance to get their life back on track.
Each young person is different and it’s a privilege to watch someone sort themselves out and fulfill their potential. We provide the space and stability – they do the hard work and find their way in the world.
Each young person brings out a different side of our personalities. We get to see the world through their eyes, and we learn about all sorts of new things. For example, we now listen to a wider range of music and my hair is a different colour. They teach us.
Being a SASH host isn’t only about us supporting young people. It’s a two-way thing and has been an enriching experience all round. Sometimes there are challenges but seeing our lodger blossom is amazing. You can’t put a price on it.
Friends of ours had been SASH hosts and we got to a point in our lives where we had the time and the space. For a while we had been concerned about young people. We wanted to try new things, so it seemed like the right thing to do. Yes, we were a bit apprehensive, but once you get going it’s a great experience.
If you have the time and the space, why wouldn’t you want to help a young person to change their life?
Don’t be fooled by some young people’s tough exterior. Often this hides someone who has been through a tough time and needs a helping hand. SASH has enabled us to reach out to young people and make a difference.
We wanted to help young people and SASH enabled us to do this. They support us as hosts as well as guiding the young people. Together we make a difference.”
