‘Sleep Out’ kids ditch beds to aid homeless

The sponsored “Sleep Out” on Friday (25 April) will be launched by the borough’s deputy mayor to raise money to help the homeless and to publicise their plight.

Among those taking part in what has become an annual challenge will be at least one primary school pupil who has kept coming back since the age of just five.

Organiser Kevin Curtis said: “The youngster is always thrilled as the date approaches – saying, ‘Mummy, it will soon be time for the Sleep Out.

“Last year we had more than 60 people ranging from individuals to entire families taking part. We have been building the figure back since the pandemic – before which the total topped 100.”

This year’s Sleep Out is the 15th to be staged in Long Eaton by a charity for the homeless that is based in the town. Deputy Mayor Cllr Harry Atkinson will be launching the event as the organisation which serves the entire borough of Erewash marks 30 years since it was founded.

Kevin, who is project manager of what is known as the Canaan Trust, said: “Thirty years ago we imagined that by now our services would no longer be required. Not only are we still needed but the need is growing.”

The trust, which relies fund-raising and donations, has helped thousands to find accommodation and rebuild their lives over the past three decades. It has an SOS hotline – 0115 946 4903 – that is manned round the clock every day of the year.

Its latest project is aimed at homeless females who have so far had no dedicated place to seek refuge locally. Supported accommodation offering nine places is poised to open in May – after the charity bought a run-down building to convert. It meant a total investment of £800,000 for what will be called Aspire House.

The slogan for those abandoning their beds to spend a night out in the open is: “Sleep out! So others can sleep in.” While adults sleep outside near St Laurence’s Church in the centre of Long Eaton under-16s get to bed down on the floor inside the building.

While sleeping bags are allowed blow-up mattresses are not – although people are welcome to bring cardboard to lie on. But at least the weather forecast is looking kind. The night is expected to be dry – although a bit chilly.

Pictured: Big-hearted locals join annual sponsored “Sleep Out” to aid homeless and publicise their plight.