For the past few years, The Whitechapel Centre has organised an annual sleepout to raise tens of thousands for our city’s homeless and most vulnerable. It’s made an immeasurable difference to those who need it most, but due to the bonfire of 2020 being what it is, this year’s event can’t take place.

Sadistically, it’s probably the year the centre needs support the most. Evictions and homelessness have risen throughout the year and the centre is restricted with its fundraising options.

To try to help the centre and its service users, I’m going to do the annual sleepout on my own this year. It’ll be a bit different as there won’t be the usual organisation and security measures, but I’m happy to rough it for the night in town if friends and family are able to chip in a few quid to help look out for others.

The centre is in no way connected to the decision to do this, so any risk is not attached to them, should anyone wonder.

I’d really appreciate it if any of you could spare a couple of quid to go towards this. I know this year has been mentally and physically challenging for us all so nothing is expected, but if you’re able to donate then it will genuinely help those who are further away from security and safety than they were at the time of the last event.

Cheers - look after each other.