On Friday 3 October I am taking on the challenge of Boycott your Bed, sleeping out on the streets of London to help the children across the UK who go to bed every night feeling unsafe, cold, hopeless. I hope to raise vital funds for Action for Children to continue to help children like Christopher.

Reflecting on a life in care: Christopher's story

Christopher struggled in his early years and suffered from neglect. His first few years in care didn't give him the support and stability he needed and deserved, moving between various foster homes. Fortunately, Action for Children found Christopher a place to call home, moving him into one of their children's home in Scotland. Aged just 11 with nothing but his big teddy . Residential Manager, Carrie Baird, remembers him being scared, anxious and "pretty broken". Thankfully, the staff were trauma-informed and trained to support young people like Christopher. Giving him opportunities to talk about his feelings and provide coping strategies to manage his anxiety. They made him feel at home, looked after him and helped him buy new clothes, underwear, shoes and toiletries. These small acts helped Christopher develop his self-esteem and sense of independence. The staff not only encouraged Christopher to join in team activities such as football and rugby they took him for days out during school holidays. They were fundamental in supporting him through further education, helping complete application forms and applying for a bursary. Christopher achieved a Prince's Trust Employability qualification in Hospitality & Catering and the staff were at his graduation to help him celebrate his achievements.

In Christopher's words: