On a chilly October night, 45 students and 3 staff slept out, on the College Grounds, to raise awareness and show their support for local charity, Step by Step.  This annual event provides an opportunity for students to take part in an experience which shows their support for other young people, less fortunate than themselves.

Step By Step supports homeless young people and those facing adversity in the UK.  The Charity caters for 11-25 year olds, who have been made homeless or are in vulnerable situations. They not only provide accommodation to young people but offer guidance, family mediation, training and help with job opportunities, to those they house and other young people in the community. Find out more about Step by Step.

Jacob Wildfire, Charities Officer on the Student Association (SA), who organised the event said “Taking part in the Sleep Out, for the second time, was part of the reason I ran for the SA. It's a big, albeit cold, sleepover, which raises money for an amazing cause. The Sleep Out is a great opportunity for First Years to make new friends and it's fun to run.  I'm humbled to have been a part of it."

Katy Marlow, Community Engagement Manager added “It is a privilege to know that the money raised from this event allows Step by Step to continue offering their vital services to so many young people. It is also very humbling to see so many of our students taking part by giving up their evenings, braving the elements and reflecting upon the need for such an organisation.”

Jenny Jackson, Corporate and Community Fundraiser at Step by Step, commented “We are very grateful to everyone at the College who slept out this year.  It is fantastic that the staff and students hold a Sleep Out each year in aid of Step by Step, they have raised over £13,000 over the past two years, which is phenomenal. 

The monies raised have helped other young people to turn their lives around for the better. 

It is only with the support of fundraisers like these students that we can help the young people who turn to us for help.  Thank you again to everyone who braved the cold to sleep out, you should be very proud of yourselves.”

The SA are hoping to raise around £2,000 this year.  It’s not too late to show your support for the student’s efforts and contribute to the work of Step by Step.  Make your donation here.