More than £200k raised to help tackle homelessness in Dorset
The funds have been raised by YMCA Bournemouth since 2016
More than £200,000 have been raised since 2016, to help tackle homelessness in Dorset, through sleep rough challenges organised by YMCA Bournemouth.
The events see schools, groups and businesses set themselves a fundraising target, build a cardboard shelter and sleep rough for one night.
Between September 2021 and March 2022, 13 local schools – including Bournemouth School for Girls and The Bishop of Winchester Academy – collectively raised £56,000 through multiple events.
Over the past three years, the ‘Big Sleep Easy’ has seen donations total £79,000.
All funds raised are used by YMCA Bournemouth to help those in need achieve independent living and secure a safe and positive long-term future.
Sheena Dayman, Events Manager at YMCA Bournemouth said:
“By supporting us and taking part in these events, our communities are helping us to keep local people safe from homelessness in the long-term.
“Not only do the ‘Sleep Easy’ events raise vital funds, but they also promote team building, informal networking and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the local community. The events have been so successful and valued that we’ve had people repeatedly sign up, year after year. I encourage everyone – whether an individual or an organisation – to take part in an event this year and help us change lives in Dorset for the better.”
Cost of living driving more people to seek help
Data from the Office for National Statistics, show more than 350 households in Dorset were homeless or at risk of homelessness by the end of 2021.
The figures show a 14% decrease compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Nationally, the ONS reported that, for the last quarter of 2021, nearly 65,000 households were initially assessed as being homeless or statutory homeless.
But there's fears that levels of homelessness could rise again, driven by the cost of living crisis.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Sheena Dayman said:
"The team I work with, they have been stretched, really stretched, as more people have been asking for these services, not being able to even pay their heating bill."
Last year, YMCA Bournemouth housed and supported more than 170 individuals and provided more than 53,000 meals for vulnerable adults.
YMCA Bournemouth is encouraging local communities to “Sleep rough to support those who are finding it tough!”, as it launches upcoming 'Sleep Easy' fundraising events.
More information can be found on their website.