Big SleepOut to take place at Chelmsford Cathedral
CHESS Homeless say it'll give Essex residents the opportunity to see what sleeping rough is like
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
An Essex homeless charity is hosting a Big SleepOut tonight (November 10) at it's original venue - Chelmsford Cathedral.
For the first time in a few years, the event is back at the Cathedral, welcoming people in for one night to experience just a small part of what our homeless community go through every single day and night.
Those who are participating will be experiencing the cold, and harsh conditions of sleeping rough, but inside the comforts of the Cathedral, with only a sleeping bag and cardboard or a bedroll, if they wish, to get a first-hand night of not sleeping in a comfortable bed.
It aims to help people understand and realise the reality of being homeless, and what each night can be like, as well as using the opportunity to fundraise for CHESS.
CHESS provide support for the homeless community across several areas in Essex, with outreach teams who work to find those who are sleeping on our streets, and provide them with support, temporary accommodation and supplies.
Their mission is to ensure that people who find themselves homeless are supported, in ways that enable them to move forward, both with purpose and good health.
"It's quite hardcore"
Lynne Dejoodt is the Marketing and Fundraising Manager for CHESS Homeless, and has told us the event is "hardcore" and that those participating will be experiencing just what its like for our homeless community on a cold winters night.
"We want people to really have the experience of rough sleeping, for an awareness purpose. Obviously people are concerned about this otherwise they wouldn't have signed up to take part in the first place.
"Ultimately we are trying to raise funds for the charity so that we can continue the work that we do offering temporary accommodation and one-to-one support for those that are currently experiencing homelessness."
Whilst this is a challenge for those taking part this evening, Lynne says at least they have a home to go back to once they've spent the night in the Cathedral.
"The people that are taking part, obviously have the promise of a warm shower at the end of the event, which they can then go home to their homes and eat a nice meal and get themselves comfortable - which isn't the luxury most people have, which isn't available to them."
How can we help?
Many people often feel unsure how to help our homeless communities, and don't know what actions to take to support them best.
We asked Lynne what CHESS would advise for anyone who sees a homeless person whilst they're out, and how best we can help them.
"Most people want to do something, but often they don't know what the best thing to do is.
"They might think that if they give money it's being used for the wrong purposes, and we try and advise on that.
"Often a kind word, or just a chat, is a really nice thing to do, to see how they're doing. You don't always have to give money, you can say 'would you like a hot drink?'.
"To know what's available in your area is really helpful. So if people are aware of the fact that there are charities around that can help, that they maybe could direct these people along to, because these charities are in place and they are equipped to help with really practical needs that people might have.
"Like putting them in touch with the right agencies, or the right mental health support for example, GP's - it could be a range of anything.
"If you're really unsure pop onto the website and have a look at what's available, or just give us a call and we're happy to chat to people about that."
The SleepOut, begins at 8pm this evening, and finishes at 8am tomorrow morning.