Bishop Auckland sleepout shines a light on homelessness

Local organisations, volunteers and families braved a cold Friday night outside Tesco Bishop Auckland to mark World Homeless Day and raise awareness of the realities faced by people sleeping rough.

On Friday 9 October, our County Durham team once again joined Deanne and the staff at Tesco Bishop Auckland for their annual World Homeless Day sleepout.

From 7pm until 6am, those taking part gave up their beds for the night, not only to raise vital funds but to gain a small understanding of what it means to sleep outdoors with nowhere safe to call home.

Joining us were representatives from Waythrough’s Liaison and Diversion (L&D) team, Emmaus North East, Durham County Council’s Homeless Response Team and Woodhouse Community Church, all giving their time to support an issue that affects people across our communities.

The evening began with a generous donation of freshly prepared food from JH Property Connect, providing everyone with a meal before settling down for the night.

Thanks to Sleep Pod, everyone was provided with a sleeping pod, giving us the opportunity to gather valuable feedback from those using them. The Crisp Packet Project also kindly donated ground sheets to help provide protection from the cold ground.

A night that offered more than just an experience

One of the most humbling parts of this year’s event was seeing children as young as nine taking part alongside their parents.

Having the opportunity to speak with them about homelessness, answer their questions and hear their thoughts was particularly moving. Their willingness to learn and understand the struggles others face was a reminder of how important these conversations are, especially with younger generations.

The night was noticeably colder than last year, but everyone looked out for one another, regularly checking that those around them were coping.

As darkness fell, however, there was also an unpleasant reminder of what people sleeping rough can experience.

Some local youths repeatedly shouted remarks from passing cars, without knowing who we were, why we were there or giving us the opportunity to explain.

While disappointing, it offered a small insight into the judgement and unwanted attention people sleeping rough can face from strangers who know nothing about their circumstances.

Of course, one night outdoors with food, equipment and people looking out for one another cannot compare to the uncertainty of homelessness. But it gave those involved something to reflect on long after the night had ended.

A community worth thanking

A huge thank you to Deanne and the Tesco Bishop Auckland team for once again hosting the event and putting so much effort into making it possible.

We are equally grateful to every organisation involved, those who provided food and equipment, the families who joined us and everyone who donated or gave their time.

Despite the cold, the conversations, kindness and willingness to help made the night a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Every penny makes a difference

Our World Homeless Day fundraising total currently stands at an incredible £1,789.73.

Every penny will go directly towards supporting people experiencing homelessness in our communities, with every £40 helping to open the door to our instant-access accommodation for someone with nowhere else to turn.

There is still time to show your support. Whatever you can give, it really does make a difference.

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/world-homeless-day-event

Let’s end homelessness together 💙🧡