This year, on 13th March, I’m taking part in the YMCA Derbyshire Sleep Easy 2026 to raise funds for people at risk of homelessness, social isolation and poverty.

For one night, I’ll swap the comfort of my warm bed for a cardboard box, joining others in braving the elements to experience just a fraction of what homeless individuals endure every day.

Homelessness is a harsh reality for far too many people in Derby and Derbyshire. YMCA Derbyshire and Padley@YMCA Derbyshire provide essential services, including safe accommodation, life skills programmes and emotional support, to help young people, individuals and families rebuild their lives and move towards a brighter future.

I have recently been fortunate enough to understand more about this amazing organisation, its extensive activities (far more than I realised) and its incredible team. It is my intention to become more involved and to support their journey as much as I reasonably can, both now and in the future.

By taking part in Sleep Easy, I hope to raise much-needed funds to support this vital work.