THREE years after its launch, Wiltshire Council’s host family scheme is helping more homeless teenagers than ever before.

The scheme sees volunteer host families take homeless 16 and 17 year olds into their homes until they can move back home or a residence is found for them.

There are 20 host families covering Salisbury, Amesbury, Devizes, Warminster, Sutton Veny, Burbage, Trowbridge, Westbury, Hilcott, Chippenham, Calne, Horningsham, and Bradford on Avon.

But the council needs more host families to come forward so more youngsters can be helped.

Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for children’s services Lionel Grundy said: “Our host families are providing a very valuable service by providing accommodation to young people who suddenly find themselves homeless.

“Often a young person that age will find themselves homeless due to a breakdown in family relationships. This scheme enables some time out and a possible return to home. If returning home is not possible the host families are providing a home from home environment until the young person is found alternative accommodation.”

Anyone interested in finding out more can email Liz Montague at liz.montague@wiltshire.gov.uk or call 07919 045656.