Islanders get ready to 'rough it' in annual charity sleep-out

Friday 22 November 2024

Scores of islanders will be spending a chilly night in a local car park this evening to raise money for those without a permanent roof over their heads as part of an annual fundraiser organised by a local homeless service.

The ‘Sleep Out’ fundraiser, organised by Sanctuary Trust and sponsored by Jersey Mutual, will run from 20:00 tonight to 06:00 tomorrow morning in Pier Road car park.

Participants will bring sleeping bags and pieces of cardboard to help them spend the night on the concrete floors as they aim to raise funds and awareness for homelessness in Jersey.

Pictured: Tim Ringsdore pictured taking part in his rough sleeping challenge – which saw him spend a night outside each parish hall in 2023. (Rob Currie)

Tim Ringsdore, chair of the Sanctuary Trust – which provides accommodation for up to 30 local men across its three facilities – said: “It won’t be the most comfortable night you’ve ever spent, but it will be one of the most meaningful.

“We want participants to recognise the challenges faced by those without a home – not to replicate their experience, but to raise awareness of the issue here in Jersey.”

Last year’s Sleep Out attracted over 140 participants and raised £35,000, with the charity describing such funds as “vital” for providing its services, including accommodation, counselling and outreach support.

Sarah Tumelty, general manager of the Sanctuary Trust, said: “This experience is testing and uncomfortable and really makes you re-evaluate and appreciate what you have.

“It’s said you’re only a couple of pay-days away from potentially being homeless, because homelessness can happen to anyone.”

Pictured: Sarah Tumelty is the general manager of the Sanctuary Trust. (Dave Ferguson)

Temperatures tonight are expected to be around 4°C.

All participants are being asked to bring sleeping bags, drinking water, cardboard and warm clothes. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

Those interested in taking part can sign up using the Sanctuary Trust’s website and anyone wishing to make a donation can do so on the charity’s Sleep Out 2024 JustGiving page.