Telford sleep-out helps homeless

The charity, based at Meeting Point House holds similar events regularly to raise funds and awareness for its work, while also giving people the chance to see what life is like on the streets.

Participants spend one night sleeping in the open with nothing but a cardboard box as shelter.

Taking part this time was Councillor Richard Overton, deputy leader of Telford & Wrekin Council and ward member for St Georges.

Kay Bennett, who does fundraising and marketing for the charity, said: "We had about 50 people take part in the end so we were really pleased. This was the fifth one we have done and we always do it on the last Friday in November.

"We think we are going to have raised between £2,000 and £3,000 which is fantastic, though we haven't got all the sponsorship money in.

"Everyone made it through, we didn't have any problems but I think it helps people to realise how uncomfortable it is on your back when you are sleeping on hard ground. And it was cold.

"We advise people taking part to bring as many layers as they can and to keep adding layers as they get chilly. But it is really hard, very cold and uncomfortable.

"Although it isn't an exercise in getting people to see what life is like being homeless, as I don't think anyone could know that after one night, it does give you an insight into how you feel the next day after you've had a broken night's sleep."

Elsewhere, students at Holy Trinity Academy in Priorslee held a similar challenge with an aim of raising money for Telford Community Food Bank and Birmingham's St Chad's Sanctuary.

Organised by sixth-form students, the evening saw a large group of staff and pupils sleeping outside in solidarity with those who have no home.

They will continue their commitment to the charity throughout the school year by supplying clothing for men, women and children, as well as kitchen ware, household equipment and food.

For more information or for those interested in donating items to the school, call 01952 386100.