Yorkshire-based business ‘sleeps with Simon’ to raise money for local charity

A West Yorkshire-based print media company is holding a ‘sleep out’ in aid of homelessness charity, Simon on the Streets.

The event will take place at The Hepworth Wakefield from 7pm on Friday 3 August, until 6am on Saturday 4th August.

Although it is in no way intended to replicate the horrendous and dangerous conditions that rough sleepers live, the event will see attendees sleep in a controlled environment in solidarity with rough sleepers.

Debbie Melton, founder and managing director of Wakefield-based Red Media has organised the town’s second ‘sleep-out’ event to raise funds for the local charity, which has been providing support to rough sleepers since 1991.

Attendees on the night are asked to bring along a cardboard box and sleeping bag to make the ‘sleep-out’ experience as authentic as possible.

Simon on the Streets outreach workers will also be in attendance to talk about the challenges faced by the homeless. Food and goody bags f or those taking part will be provided at the event.

Simon on the Streets is an independent charity, working with local people affected by homelessness and rough sleeping in Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield. The organisation offers street-support to individuals who have complex needs and cannot access mainstream services, due to behavioural issues or mental illness.

Debbie Melton, founder of Red Media commented:

“We’re hoping to reach fifty sign-ups before the event and encourage as many people as possible to support this worthy cause. As well as helping people understand just how difficult life is for those suffering with homelessness, we also want to encourage a sense of community spirit and there will be plenty of opportunity to make new friends and contacts.”

Gordon Laing, general manager of Simon on the Streets said:

“We’re delighted to receive such fantastic support from Red Media; we have held a number of ‘sleep-outs’ in the past which have proven extremely successful in terms raising both funds and awareness for the charity as well as helping to remove the adverse stigma attached to homelessness and rough sleeping.

“The rate of homelessness in city centres is still disturbingly high and as such, the services Simon on the Streets provide is key in tackling the problem.”

To find out more about the event, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/394931934324473/ or contact Debbie Melton on 01924 266133.

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Image credit: Toolsie Photography


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About Simon on the Streets

Simon On the Streets is a registered charity (1165317) that focuses on unsupported people with a history of rough sleeping in Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield. The team offers street-based, emotional and practical support for those who cannot access mainstream services. Part of Simon on the Streets’ role is tackling the behavioral issues and mental illnesses that result in homelessness and addiction. For more information about the charity, visit www.simononthestreets.co.uk or tweet @simonotstreets.