Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Here is a little information about the Sleep Easy event and why I'm taking part!

The Sleep Easy Sleepout is a national YMCA event that aims to tackle youth homelessness. For one night a group of people, myself included, will be rough sleeping at a location in Brighton in order to raise awareness of youth homelessness. Whilst one night might not be a true taste of homelessness, it will certainly be thought provoking, so I hope to raise lot's of money for the cause!

In Brighton & Hove the money will be used to fund the Youth Advice Centre (YAC). This project offers support to 13-25 year olds. The aim is to provide young people in the local area with a safe and friendly environment where they can access much needed advice and support in all areas, including housing.

The money raised will be used to sustain:

•    YAC emergency fund - This pays for food, travel, toiletries and other necessities for young people who are homeless or experiencing crisis around their housing.
•    Support and advice service at YAC - This offers young people a safe space to access support and advice on a wide range of issues including sexual health, emotional well-being and mental health, debt, benefits and much more. Young people are given long term support through one to one sessions with a trained worker and linked in to relevant services in the local area.
•    Youth Homelessness Prevention Workshop - This is a peer led workshop developed by young people in the city who have experienced homelessness. The aim is to educate young people about the realities of leaving home and highlight housing issues to support the prevention of youth homelessness. YAC visits local schools to run sessions that provide an insight into the realities of leaving home early, as well as challenging the stereotypes of homelessness and information around practical aspects like independent living skills.

As a young person who has been involved with the YMCA both as a service user and a volunteer, I am able to vouch for the amazing work that they do. I have been faced with housing issues myself but I was fortunate enough to have friends and family support me, for others that might not be the case.

So, let's get the donations rolling!