IT’S hard to imagine children being forced out of their homes and having to live on the streets but it does happen regularly in Bolton.

At the Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme they know about this, offering help and a place to live to hundreds of young people aged 16 to 25 every year.

Some go into rented accommodation. Some can’t cope with the isolation and need support. To help them, the charity has opened a new scheme in Farnworth – The Lucas Centre – offering a temporary home and ongoing help to 39 youngsters.

This marks a major improvement in getting youngsters off the streets and into safe accommodation. There are communal rooms and activities, 24-hour security and staff onsite.

Even more important, they are with people who care; it’s hard to know what would have happened to them otherwise. The charity, however, needs help. It’s holding a charity dinner on October 23 at the Last Drop Hotel and needs everyone’s support. If you can help, call them on 01204 520183.