On Thursday 14th April, I will be swapping my bed for the streets of Leeds, and my cosy quilt and pillows for a (potentially) soggy sleeping bag. I can't pretend it will be as frightening for me to sleep rough, in company with up to 200 others, at Trinity Leeds with toilets and security, as it must be for people who are truly homeless, alone and with no other option but to sleep on the street. It probably won't be too cold (let's hope it doesn't rain) and it's only for one night. Then we'll be back in our own homes and beds. People who use the likes of St George’s Crypt in Leeds and emergency winter night shelters have no such comfortable expectation, and nowhere else to turn. I will be taking part in this event, not only to experience one night of sleeping rough, but also to raise as much awareness, and funds for a worthwhile cause: The Leeds United Foundation. The Foundation helps keep our children away from the risks of homelessness and want to help even more vulnerable young people steer away off from the dangers of the streets. 

So I am asking for your help. There are three ways (that I can think of) that you could help me:

-Sponsor me/Donate. Don't worry it's not £5 a month subscription or a pyramid scheme.The funds will be used to make a difference to peoples lives. Don't worry if you can't afford much, just show me, the others and the charity your support and throw us a shilling. 

-Spread the word. If you can't afford to donate, or don't want to (or even as well as donating if you are super great!) Just share my JustGiving page, my begging social media statuses (which if you haven't seen yet, will be clogging your newsfeed very soon)

-Join in. Maybe you are so compelled by this fantastic page, or the event in general that you want to actively help. Great. Find out more and sign up here http://www.leedsunitedfoundation.com/give/the-big-united-sleep-out/

I really appreciate your support, however you give it :)

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.