A unique charity challenge took place in Leeds last night (October 8) as volunteers slept outside to raise awareness and vital funds for those experiencing homelessness.
Simon’s Big Sleep Out saw around 70 fundraisers bed down outside Leeds Civic Hall to support local homeless charity Simon on the Streets.
Participants included local businesses, councillors, and even the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Stephen Holroyd.
This year’s Big Sleep Out raised £23,000 for Simon on the Streets which will fund emotional and practical outreach for homeless and vulnerable people in Leeds and Bradford.
The rainy night saw people who have been helped by the charity share their stories before the volunteers slept outside in the city centre.
Natalie Clark, CEO of Simon in the Streets said: “[The Big Sleep Out] hits people in a different way. It’s not saying you’re going to know what it’s like to be homeless but it gives people a taste of that isolation, that uncomfortableness and people really get behind it.
“Spending a night in the cold and damp, away from your home comforts reminds people just how fortunate they are.”
She continued: “When they’re getting into bed the next day and getting warm, they’re still thinking about the people who aren’t that lucky.
“We do it year on year because we know it has an impact. It really does change hearts and minds.”
1. Simon's Big Sleep Out
This year's Big Sleep Out saw around 70 volunteers bed down outside Leeds Civic Hall | Steve Riding
2. Simon's Big Sleep Out
Braving the rain are Vicky Ellis, Lara McCune, Debbie Whitaker of Not Just Numbers accountancy | Steve Riding
3. Simon's Big Sleep Out
Lord Mayor of Leeds, Coun Stephen Holroyd, camped out for the night in the rain alongside dozens of fundraisers | Steve Riding
6. Simon's Big Sleep Out
Simon on the Streets CEO Natalie Clark and the Lord Mayor of Leeds | Steve Riding