On 17th October, staff, supporters and families swapped their beds for cardboard boxes at YMCA Worcestershire’s first Sleep Easy event, raising over £6,000 for young people facing homelessness across the county.
Participants slept out at Redditch United Football Club, fuelled by hot drinks, snacks and good vibes. Spirits stayed high, helped by plenty of laughter and a fiercely competitive game of Pictionary. Adam from Dandelion Video Production filmed the night from start to finish, including participants’ video diaries.
The event was made possible by local businesses. Thorlux Lighting in Redditch donated every box, Redditch United FC provided a safe space, and The White Swan in Henley lent a hot water urn when ours broke at the last minute. Local MP Chris Bloore also joined to show his support.
Emily Brooks, who helped organise the event and slept out with her family, said: “Every time something went wrong, someone came through with a solution. It was a true collaborative effort. For the hour I spent trying to sleep, I felt a real sense of vulnerability. I knew I was going home to a warm bed, but for so many people, the reality is very different.”
Every penny raised will directly support young people in our Housing and Support service, providing emergency accommodation, life skills, and mental health guidance.
YMCA Worcestershire supports young people, families and communities across the county. Our vision is an inclusive future, where everyone can reach their true potential.