Chichester charity's hosting the Big Sleep Out to show the "harsh realities" of rough sleeping
The event is raising money for homelessness
A Chichester charity's hosting the Big Sleep Out today at Chichester Cathedral to show people the "harsh realities" of rough sleeping.
The event, ran by the Stonepillow charity, aims to raise funds and awareness for the charity.
Stonepillow offers support to people who are homeless through supported accommodation, a recovery service and outreach programmes.
Sophia Rapley, Fundraising Manager at Stonepillow, said: "It’s a really great opportunity to sleep out but the aim of the event is not to replicate homelessness, but it will get you out of your comfort zone and give you an insight into the harsh realities of rough sleeping.
"By signing up to the Big Sleep Out you are supporting a local homelessness charity.
"We are raising funds for this event and aiming to raise £25,000 which will go towards our support hubs in Chichester and Bognor.
"These are primarily for rough sleepers and generally the first port of call for the support they need. So it’s really important we get people to sign up.
"To be honest with you, homelessness is on the rise, with the cost of living and how the economic environment is.
"We really need to continue our services.
"At our Chichester hub, it costs around £125,000 a year to ensure it continues.
"We support around a thousand people every year, so it’s extremely vital we get people to join together and take part in events like this."