St Martins Sleep Out returns to Norwich Cathedral

Fundraisers will be swapping their mattresses for a stone cold floor when the St Martins Sleep Out returns to Norwich Cathedral on Friday 30 January.

The event will take place from 7.30pm on Friday 30 January until 6.30am on Saturday 31 January and it challenges people aged 18 and over to spend the night in the Cloister to raise money for the Norwich-based homelessness charity.

'A Night in the Cloister' aims to raise awareness of the challenges people sleeping rough face, but is not intended to replicate the experience of being homeless.

Dr Jan Sheldon, St Martins CEO, said: “Sleeping rough is a sign of real desperation; a clear indicator that something has gone seriously wrong in a person’s life.

"People doing this repeatedly suffer both physically and mentally. The sleepout we are organising nowhere near replicates the danger and loneliness of sleeping on the streets – it provides perhaps a small glimpse into the physical discomfort of the lack of a warm bed.

"We’d like to encourage people to join this event and if you are unable to sleep out, consider sponsoring those of us who will be taking part.

"Fundraising helps us to provide more outreach services to those sleeping on the streets, this support saves lives.”

Norwich Cathedral has a close relationship with St Martins, which started in the garage of the Deanery more than 50 years ago.

The Dean of Norwich, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, said: “Norwich Cathedral is pleased to continue its involvement with the important work St Martins does.

"The Sleep Out not only focuses attention on those experiencing homelessness, but the money raised will help St Martins in making a real difference in many people’s lives.”

Those who would like to make a donation can do by clicking the button below or contacting the St Martins team via fundraising@stmartinshousing.org.uk or 01603 667706.