On Thursday 7th November, I’ll be taking part in a Sleepout at Blackburn Cathedral to raise vital funds and awareness for The Light Group and the incredible work they do supporting people facing homelessness and addiction.

For one night, I’ll be giving up the comfort of my bed to sleep outside — but for many, this is a harsh reality they face every single night.

Blackburn has the highest rate of deaths among the homeless in the entire country, Rough sleepers in the borough are six times as likely to die on the streets than in other areas, figures reveal.

Since working at Bramwell House HMO, Salvation Army I have had the pleasure of working with some of the bravest, most courageous and amazing people who due to no fault of their own have found themselves homeless. I know people who have been let down by society, mental health professionals or other agencies. some believing they are a burden to their families unfortunately deciding to take their own lives.

I want to highlight to those of you who go home at night to a warm dry house, cosy bed and food on the table, just how our homeless people struggle on a daily basis being exposed to the elements, being dependant on the charity of others

I’m asking for your support to help make a real difference.

Every donation, big or small, will go directly towards supporting individuals in our community to turn their lives around.

If you can, please donate and help me shine a light in the darkness.

Thank you so much for your support — together, we can change lives. 🙏