Pathways Sleep Out 2020 is a unique event in which individuals will be invited to sleep on the grounds of The Proact Stadium.

The Sleep Out is projected to be an exciting and thought-provoking event. However, as well as being a fantastic night, this event will serve two further and, equally important purposes.

Firstly, participants in this event will be afforded with a unique insight into the conditions that many individuals who are experiencing homelessness face every day. In addition to the unpleasant nature of sleeping in uncomfortable circumstances and often unforgiving weather conditions, rough sleeping is a dangerous, isolating and often traumatic experience. Prolonged periods of rough sleeping can be hugely detrimental to a persons physical and mental wellbeing and can increase their risk of being subjected to violence and developing substance misuse issues. The number of people rough sleeping in England has increased each year since 2010 and an estimate of 4,677 rough sleeping in any one night in 2018 (Statistics from Homeless link), the importance of understanding homelessness is growing in significance. In light of this, we envisage that the Sleep Out will provide a powerful platform through which to foster increased awareness of the challenges that are faced by homeless individuals and families, every day.

In addition to raising awareness, the Sleep Out provides a brilliant opportunity to raise funds to support the work of Pathways. We are fortunate to be able to provide housing and tenancy support, specialist mental health nursing, outreach services, emergency food and clothing provisions and groups for support, advice and companionship. Last year, we worked with 363 different people who were either homeless or at risk of losing their tenancy 154 of whom we were able to support into accommodation. However, we rely heavily on the contributions of regular supporters and one-off donations in order to continue this vital work.