THOUSANDS of people are due to travel to Glasgow ahead of COP26 and non-profit organisations are urging people to help house them.

Locals with a spare couch, bed or room can sign up to the COP26 Homestay Network and host visitors coming to the summit between Monday, November 1 and Tuesday, November 12.

By offering free or low-cost accommodations, volunteers 'do their bit' to ensure the smooth running of the event.

The initiative aims to support activists, policymakers and other guests of COP26 who otherwise may not be able to cover the costs themselves, particularly those from the Global South.

Almost 700 Glaswegian households have already signed up for the website which requires creating a profile and identity verification to ensure safety.

Patrick Harvie, Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants' Rights Minister, said: "I’m pleased that the COP26 Homestay Network is continuing the tradition of solidarity, linking local households with attendees to provide affordable accommodation, helping ensure that those critical voices are heard.

"Accommodation at any COP climate conference is challenging and Glasgow is no exception.

"This scheme gives local hosts a chance to do their bit to ensure a successful summit, meeting remarkable people from around the world while supporting the global movement to tackle climate change."

The Homestay Network is operated independently from the Scottish Government, by non-profit organisations.

Mr Harvie added: "COP26 is our best and possibly last chance to work alongside people from around the globe to safeguard our planet from climate catastrophe. 

"We know that the impacts of climate change are not felt equally. In fact, those countries and people least responsible for the climate crisis are the ones most severely affected by it.

"It is vital that the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis are heard and acted upon."

To get involved, visit the COP26 Homestay Network's official website.