On the 24th of November Neil, our Community Support Worker, and his partner will be participating in a SleepOut event for fellow homeless charity Lambeth based Robes.
We spoke with Neil to learn more about the event and why he is getting involved.
Can you tell us more about the event?
“Every year Southwark Cathedral allow people to sleep outside for one night to raise awareness towards people struggling with homelessness in the Southwark and Lambeth area. The purpose of this event is to highlight the issues people who are rough sleeping face. The SleepOut will be at the Southwark Cathedral to raise money for Robes. We will be sleeping outside on the cathedral grounds provided the weather conditions aren’t too bad otherwise we will be inside the cathedral itself.
“There is also a line up of entrainment planned throughout the evening including a panel show and a performance from a jazz band. In the morning we will be presented with a breakfast before we leave for home.”.
Why are you taking part?
“I’m taking part because in the past I have stayed in winter night shelters, so through personal experience I know how important they are for those struggling with homelessness. Taking part in this SleepOut event allows me to support a great cause”.
How much do you aim to raise?
“I have put a £500 target on our JustGiving page. We are currently at £290!”
Please click here for Neil’s JustGiving page and consider donating if you would like to support him and Robes.
What does Solidarity mean to you and why do you think volunteering your time is so important?
“To me, solidarity is doing whatever you can to help others in the community. Aside from this I am engaging in other acts of solidarity such as undertaking volunteer training for the Renewed Hope winter night shelter starting on December, in Redhill, my local shelter. I will also be volunteering during Crisis at Christmas this year”.
“When I was homeless, and I stayed in night shelters and ate in soup kitchens it really restored my faith in humanity. I met some lovely people during this time, and they will always have a special place in my heart. If I can give my time to help someone else, I would absolutely love to”.
We will be posting a recap with Neil following the SleepOut to find out how it went. We recommend you keep an eye out on our social media channels and website for that!