On Thursday 10th November I will be taking part in raising over
£500,000 to support some of the thousands of people who experience homelessness in the UK every year. Sleep Out is a nationwide event organised by the End Youth Homelessness (EYH) campaign, which is a national partnership of grassroots charities and companies that provides vital support to homeless young people across the UK.
I will be facing the cold of a November night with nothing but a sleeping bag and a cardboard mat! It will most likely be cold and uncomfortable and the event will take place whatever the weather! There is no choice for homeless people – so why should I have this luxury of deciding not to take part if it is raining.
So please spare some pennies for this great cause, any amount helps!
Based on Government figures, Cornwall is the fifth highest area in the UK for numbers of rough sleepers. Most are either from Cornwall or have lived and worked in the county for a significant time. Others travel to the county fleeing violence or in search of employment and a fresh start. For many, the county is simply the end of the line on the train.
A large majority of rough sleepers are young and male, many of whom have suffered a relationship breakdown or lost employment. Some may have drug, alcohol or mental health problems. Some are offenders, and an increasing number of former service personnel are being seen. Women account for approximately 20% of rough sleepers. All homeless people are vulnerable.
St Petroc's Society provide accommodation, support, advice, training and resettlement services to single homeless people in Cornwall. Within resources available, they strive to provide the best quality of service possible. The primary aim is to provide these services to people aged 16 - 65 years and for whom no provision is made within the community, either statutory or otherwise.
