The Eden Project Sleep Out is an annual event when a hardy bunch of supporters come together by the iconic biomes to brave a cold November night outside.

This event and others like it are not attempting to replicate homelessness; no event could replicate the horror of sleeping rough night after night without an end in sight. What Sleep Out events do aim to do though is shine a light on this issue at a time of year when things get even harder for people with nowhere safe to sleep. This event also raises vital funds which supports Amber's work over the winter period.

To give a sense of what a difference funds will make to the young people who stay at Amber here is Jakes story.

Jake moved on from Amber late last year with a job and a room in a shared house. Before coming to Amber Jake was street homeless, abusing drugs and deeply depressed. He recently got in touch to let us know he has a new job as a support worker with young people and is about to move into a flat with his girlfriend. This is what he said in his email.

I cant thank the Amber team enough. If you hadnt been there for me I wouldn't be here. Im still drug free, in a home and working full time. Sorry for getting soppy but I wont ever forget my time at Amber and the amazing people who helped me... You guys are the reason I wanted to do this job!

Jakes story shows that with the right support young people can move past their problems and not just survive but thrive.

The Sleep Out at Eden is a very special event. Previous years have seen appearances by Raynor Winn, author of the Salt Path, and the renowned Cornish musician Suzi Mac. As ever there will be talks, workshops and performances in the evening before everyone beds down for the night in the shadow of the biomes.

Please support our fundraising efforts here or, if you are taking part in the event yourself, make your own fundraising page.