"Four walls and a roof - a big step from being homeless"

YMCA Bournemouth has been helping people in the community, including those experiencing homelessness, for over 145 years.

It provides short-term supported housing for men and women to equip them with the skills they'll need to return to independent living.

YMCA Bournemouth is one of the schemes that will receive donated items from the BBC Radio Solent Soapbox Appeal.

Throughout January Radio Solent is helping collect donated toiletries and cleaning products so local community schemes can share them with anyone who needs a little extra support.

We've been chatting to some of the staff and residents of the YMCA's Westover Road Hostel in Bournemouth.

You can be part of the BBC Radio Solent Soapbox Appeal by donating unopened items at drop-off points across Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight.