Over 600 people took part in the Big Brum Sleepout last weekend, including the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street CBE.
After gathering plastic and cardboard, Andy Street and members of the WMCA set up camp on the grass. With large groups and individuals placed around the Cathedral the atmosphere was amazing.
Later they congregated in the Cathedral to listen to Jean Templeton of St Basil’s Charity talk about their achievements so far and vision for the future. There was prize giving for the best "abode” after which all sang classic Christmas carols. The weather was just right with a reasonable nights sleep.
To date the group have raised £2,064.22 with money still coming in! Thanks to those who took part, and to all who sponsored. Here’s to next year
The next St Basil's sleepout is in Solihull on Friday 5th April 2019
At this free event St Basil's challenged people to build a dwelling out of cardboard and plastic sheeting and then sleep in it overnight in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral in November.
It was a challenge but it's great fun too and they also have a competition for the most 'creative' shelter.
St Basil's house over 1000 young people in Birmingham and over 1500 across the West Midlands in our 34 supported accommodation schemes, plus they help thousands more young people with face to face support and advice, but due to government cuts these services are at risk.
They have to raise £1 million this year. BIG Brum SleepOut was their largest event of the year.
On Friday 30 November braved the evening sleeping outside Birmingham Cathedral to support and raise awareness of youth homelessness. .
