I've done the 'Big Sleep Out' now! 

Last Friday 3^rd October 2014 it was howling around Media City. The sleepers huddled together in survival bags under the glare of lights around the plaza. Metrolink stop and the Quays very close to us. People coming and going from BBC and ITV all night. 

Before braving the elements we gathered inThe Landing' to meet up and share stories. Quick meal and a drink together, then a fund raising auction and quiz. There's a mix of people - some in teams, some individuals - all joining together to make a small difference. What struck me most was the friendliness between strangers, the sense of camaraderie!

We do it to help tackle youth homelessness. Every year, 80,000 young people find themselves without a place to stay. 1 in 7 homeless young people will have been physically or sexually abused and 1 in 3 will try to commit suicide. I’m giving up my bed for one night to make a positive difference to these young people’s lives. Action for Children supports 300,000 children, young people, their families and carers, and last year Byte Night raised over £1 million to support this vital work.

A donation of just £5 could pay for a hot meal for a homeless young person. £10 can buy a set of pots and pans to help a formerly homeless young person start to build their own home. By donating £18, you could pay for a warm shower and hygiene kit to help a young person prepare for interviews.

Thank you to all friends, family and colleagues for your support - I couldn't do it without you. 

Yvonne x