On Friday 27 March 2026 I’m sleeping out at Deepdale for the Big PNE Sleep Out to raise money for women experiencing hidden homelessness in Preston.

Homelessness is often invisible: women and girls sofa-surfing, staying with unsafe people, sleeping in cars, or avoiding help because it feels too risky. It can happen to anyone, but it brings extra danger and trauma for women.

A significant portion of the money raised from the Sleep Out will go directly to The Foxton Women’s Centre, where I volunteer weekly. I have sat with the women who come into the centre over a brew, listened to their challenges, and seen first-hand how vital this place is. It is a non-judgemental, safe space for women who often have nowhere else to go.

Right now, demand is up, but funding is not. The centre is chronically underfunded. With more income, The Foxton can do more of what works: more staff time, longer opening hours, and more practical support for women to stay safe and rebuild stability.

At the last Sleep Out a few years ago - my generous friends, family and colleagues helped raise £1,000. This year I’m aiming for double that.

My ask is simple:

... If you can spare £5–£10, I would be really grateful. That will help The Foxton buy coffee, biscuits and microwave meals so that the women who come in can warm up and leave with a full stomach.

... If you can give £25–£50, that could help us pay for some hours for sessional staff with specialist knowledge to help keep the centre open and responsive.

... If you’re comfortably well off with a well paid, reliable job (as I know many of my professional friends and colleagues are!), please consider £100, £150 or even £250. For many of us, that is a dinner, a weekend away, or a tiny fraction of a bonus. For the women at The Foxton, it funds real support at the point they most need it.

And if you’d prefer not to share the amount or your name publicly, you can of course donate anonymously.

Personally, I’m proud to support The Foxton with both my time and my money. If you’re in a position to give, I’d encourage you to do it proudly and publicly. Normalising generosity makes it easier for others to step up too. And if you can share this page, that helps just as much.

Thank you for backing me, and for helping The Foxton reach more vulnerable and homeless women and girls in Preston.