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Newark and Sherwood sleep out raises funds for homelessness charities

Monday, 14 October 2019 19:00

By Tia North @TiaJourno

Over 30 different people took part in a campout on Friday 11 October, which raised £2,649 for homelessness charities.

Newark and Sherwood District Council officers, councillors, partners and family members braved a night in the elements, settling down in the Castle House car park for a hard nights sleep. 

Those camping out received a kit list, to ensure a realistic experience for all taking part. All participants had to build their own shelter using donated cardboard boxes, in which they had to bunk down for the night. 

The aim of the night was to raise awareness of rough sleepers in our area, whilst generating funds for local charities. The evening concluded with the sleep out volunteers having raised a huge total of £2,649.

Newark and Sherwood Chief Executive of Newark and Sherwood District Council said: “It is a sad reality that a significant number of people are homeless or at risk of being so in Newark and Sherwood.

Lots is being done to tackle the problem and our Sleepout is a way of helping to raise awareness and develop an understanding that none of us are immune from the risk of homelessness.

Of course, this is just a taste of what it is really like – it’s not that cold right now and we all get to go back to warm homes and full fridges.”

Newark and Sherwood District Council has a dedicated team of officers who work to prevent and reduce the number of rough sleepers in the district. Those who do find themselves in a situation of homelessness end up there through varied and complicated reasons. 

The council aim to offer support and guidance tailored to the needs of the individual. As colder months approach, they will be opening an emergency shelter to keep rough sleepers warm. 

If you wish to donate you can do so at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/sleepoutns

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