Record number of kids take part in charity sleep out

A record number of schoolchildren have built cardboard shelters to raise awareness about homelessness.

Staff from YMCA Cheltenham slept outside on Friday night in the makeshift shelters constructed by 80 Year 5 and Year 6 pupils from schools across Gloucestershire, as part of the YMCA's annual fundraising event.

Melody, 9, who returned for her second year taking part in the challenge, said: "I think it's [homelessness] very bad and we should try and help by raising money so everyone gets a roof over their head."

The event took place at the homeless charity YMCA's Cheltenham Sports Centre, and leaders said they have raised £1.7m through the annual event nationally since 2010.

Across Gloucestershire in 2024, 42 people were found to be sleeping rough, which is a rise of 35% from 31 in 2023.

The Reverend Tim Welch, the charity's chaplain, said 300 YMCA beds a night are being used in Cheltenham.

He said sleeping outside in a cardboard shelter has made him reflect on how privileged he is to have a bed to sleep in every night.

"It makes you realise how precious a space is that you can just lock the door on," he added.

John Ingles, head of housing at YMCA Cheltenham, said there was a record number of schoolchildren taking part in this year's event.

"By taking part...participants are not only raising funds, they're showing their support for those who need hope, safety and support right now," he added.

Emma Greenwood, a teacher at one of the schools that took part, said the challenge helped the children understand the issue of homelessness in a practical way as they had to construct the shelters.

"By problem-solving and thinking about where might the water come in, how are the people going to be feeling in terms of their temperature, it's helping them really understand that homelessness is a really big problem and something that's happening in their community," she said.

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