Norwich Cathedral hosts Sleep Out to raise money for charity

Fundraising event Sleep Out brings communities together to help battle homelessness and hosts events all over the UK.

And from 7pm on November 15, those looking to take part and help raise money will be gathering at Norwich Cathedral.

They will be joined by the Lord Mayor and the Sheriff of Norwich, and will sleep outside until 7am the following day.

Joshua Antcliff, fundraising coordinator at The Benjamin Foundation, said: "The aim of Sleep Out isn’t to replicate homelessness, but instead to provide participants a small glimpse of some of the challenges homeless people may face.

The cathedral will form the backdrop for the event (Image: The Benjamin Foundation) "We are delighted to continue having the support of so many people, groups and businesses in the local community who are equally committed to tackling youth homelessness and celebrating the positive outcomes achieved by the young people supported."

Last year, more than 135,000 young people were homeless or at risk of homelessness in the UK according to charity Centrepoint.

The Benjamin Foundation, based in Norwich, aims to tackle this issue by providing home and support to almost 200 young people each night.

This year the Foundation's celebrates its 30th anniversary, as it marks supporting more than 3,000 children and families across Norfolk and Suffolk during this time.

People will be raising money for charity by sleeping under the stars (Image: The Benjamin Foundation) The money raised will go towards the Sleep Out fund that helps to support the young people accessing housing services.

Participants should prepare for the night by bringing waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag and a cardboard box or yoga mat to sleep on.

The charity will be providing snacks and hot drinks on the night but participants can also bring their own. 

• Anyone looking to take part should head to www.benjaminfoundation.co.uk to find out more.