I am part of a Local Action Group run by NCS, and as a team we have decided that homelessness is a key issue in contemporary society. 

Homelessness comes in many different forms, with the most common type being 'hidden', including sofa surfers, staying in insecure accommodation, and many other temporary solutions. The concept of 'home' is so vital to many of us, but this security and familiarity is often taken for granted and is something that 32% of people have not had access to at some point in their lives. 

So, to raise money for Centrepoint, an incredible charity who support 14,000 young people every year - we have decided that we will 'sleep out', without a mattress, either in our gardens or on the floor. Of course we cannot mimic the scary conditions that many homeless people face, but this project can give an insight into the rough conditions experienced by homeless people, whilst raising money for an incredible cause. 

As a team, we will take it in turns to sleep out during the Easter holidays. We encourage everyone to get involved too! Whether that be by sleeping out yourself, donating to this page, or buying a homeless person a hot drink and saying a friendly hello. 

Although Centrepoint's key focus is homelessness, they also help with all of the issues associated with this, providing support with: housing, health, learning, policy and research, engagement, moving on and emphasises the idea of feeling safe throughout the process of finding a home. 88% of young people have moved on positively from Centrepoint, however, with national shortages in housing Centrepoint continues to need donations and support. 

If you would like to find out more about Centrepoint, hear about people's personal stories and learn more about our event, please follow our Instagram page at @sleepouttohelpout.