On Thursday, 26th March 2026, I will be giving up my bed for the night and sleeping in a shelter under the stars, whatever the weather, at The Trenches in Detling Showground. This challenge is designed to replicate, in a small way, the harsh reality that many of our nation’s heroes face every single night.

Right now, across the UK, too many veterans are experiencing homelessness. Every winter, Royal British sees a rise in veterans arriving at their doors in urgent need of support after enduring extreme weather, poor mental health, hunger, and the cold.

The Royal British Veterans' Association currently supports over 340 veterans and their families – from those facing homelessness to young veteran families and older veterans living with health conditions. They are also home to the iconic Tommy. Their support ranges from emergency accommodation and essential items like clothing and toiletries to specialist mental health and employment services.

I am participating in "The Chairman's Great Tommy Sleep Out 2026" to raise awareness and funds for this vital cause. My target is to raise £1,000 to help ensure that no veteran has to face another night without a safe place to sleep. I invite you to join me in this mission; your support can make a real difference in the lives of those who have served our country. Together, we can help provide hope and stability for our heroes.