I often take for granted that I have a roof over my head each night and get to sleep in a warm bed. I can’t imagine how difficult it must be to sleep on the street and then try and have a productive day. Never mind trying to go to several job centres, interviews and other schemes when you have had a freezing, uncomfortable and interrupted sleep.

Unfortunately, this is the reality for thousands of young people each year, many of whom have not completed secondary school education. Many young people will face numerous dangers on the streets, but it is often still a safer option than going back to their home. This is a decision that no young person should have to make.

The Fine & Country Foundation is proudly partnered with End Youth Homelessness (EYH), a national campaign focusing on the 16 to 25-year olds. The campaign is formed of nine homeless charities across the country. Each of the member charities is hosting Sleep Outs this winter to promote awareness of homelessness and help people to realise the difficulties that accompany sleeping rough.

For this reason, many of the Sleep Outs, such as the London Sleep Out on Thursday 15th November, are held on a weeknight. We will face going to work the next day and will have to carry out their usual tasks, meetings and duties. I feel sorry for the colleagues who will be subjected to me. 

The Sleep Outs are designed to raise awareness of homelessness and the struggles that come with it, not to mimic what it is like to be homeless. I will only be sleeping rough for one night, while thousands of young people have the whole winter to endure. With your help and generosity, I am hoping that I make a difference in some way and make life a little more comfortable for someone in need.

All money raised will go directly to the charity and will assist someone to get back on their feet.