On Friday 1st December, I'm going to be homeless for a night by "sleeping rough". This will be my 25th year of enduring the freezing temperatures to sleep on the cold, wet, dirty, noisy streets where I'm lucky if I find a patch of tarmac that's a bit 'softer' than the concrete. I'll also have to contend with insects, rats and whatever else lurks at night in a city centre to keep me company.

If the terrible weather wasn't enough, I'll be making it even more difficult by not using any umbrellas, sleeping bags, tents, groundsheets or anything other than the clothes on my back and whatever shelter I can construct using a few scraps of cardboard and a plastic bag.

Why? To raise money for St. Basils, a UK registered homelessness prevention charity who work with vulnerable young people regardless of their background, religion or ethnicity who are homeless or face the terrifying possibility of homelessness. They support them with accommodation, invaluable support services, mentoring and skills development to them back on their feet and becoming self-sustaining.

There are no fundraiser, minimum sponsorship or admin costs and every penny you donate will go directly St Basils - plus full Gift Aid. Please sponsor me with whatever amount you can - every penny counts!

Thank you!

Zain