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I am taking part in Pathways of Chesterfield's Great Garden Sleep Out 2020. Homelessness has always been an issue I have cared about and since working at Pathways I have become acutely aware of the issues homeless people in our community face and how much Pathways can help and support them. 

I am looking forward to gaining 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 person’s 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).

Thanks to fundraising efforts such as this event, Pathways is 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. 

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