Around 100 people will be taking part in this year’s Big Worcester Sleep Out at Sixways Stadium on Thursday October 14 raising funds for and awareness of three homelessness charities.
Those taking part will brave the autumn elements by sleeping outdoors in the stadium of Gallagher Premiership rugby club Worcester Warriors or, if they prefer, at home.
The event is not intended to replicate the daily experience of homeless people living on the streets or in extreme poverty but to raise awareness of this serious issue and to generate funds to help support people in danger through the Warriors Community Foundation, Maggs Day Centre and St Paul’s Hostel.
This year’s Big Worcester Sleep Out volunteers have so far raised almost £7,500 from more than 300 donors.
There is still time to support those taking part by clicking here
“We are delighted to again be hosting the Big Worcester Sleep Out at Sixways and hope that as many people across the city and county will support those taking part,” said Carol Hart, head of Warriors Community Foundation.
“Last year’s event was cancelled owing to COVID-19 and this year’s event will look a little different with some of the volunteers opting to take part in our virtual event – Sleep In to Sleep Out.”
“There is also an opportunity for younger members of the family to take part in the event. We are mindful that Thursday is a school night so we are encouraging youngsters to join in the Sleep Out on either the Friday or Saturday night.
“We’d like them to take photos of them sleeping out and send them to us to show how they are supporting the three charities.
“Homelessness is more than just rooflessness, it is about the lack of stable, secure and affordable accommodation.
“There are visible and invisible homeless, with many more hidden from view than those sleeping rough.
“Homelessness is a serious problem and people believe it will get worse but there are solutions to homelessness that require cross-departmental strategies.
“Evidence demonstrates the damaging long-term effects of homelessness on health. The long-term impact on children’s health includes physical changes in brain structure, negatives, educational outcomes and adverse long-term social and psychological outcomes.
“There is strong evidence to suggest that tackling poverty through increasing income and good quality housing are effective ways to achieve multiple positive health outcomes across the life course.
“People can recover from homelessness, recovery is often a journey without an end point. People can change, the brain can be re-wired, but it takes time, specialist skills and support.”