Global torch and flashlight manufacturers Unilite has pledged support to a campaign to raise funds and support young people at risk of homelessness through a sleepout at the world-renowned Edgbaston Stadium.

The third Edgbaston Sleepout is led by the Edgbaston Foundation, the official charity of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, with more than 45 volunteers signed up to sleep rough on Thursday 25 April at the venue which hosts the opening Test of this year’s Specsavers Ashes series.

As the lead supporter for this year’s Edgbaston Sleepout, five Unilite staff have signed up to participate and raise funds, whilst it will also provide a goody bag for each sleeper, which includes its popular Unilite Beanie (with light). The support will also cover all costs on the evening ensuring that funds raised go directly towards supporting you people impacted by homelessness.

Laura Evans Director at Unilite, said: “Unilite is delighted to provide support to the Edgbaston Foundation for the Edgbaston Sleepout. This is our second year supporting the Sleepout and we have been proud to give additional support to St. Basils. Working with the Edgbaston Foundation to tackle this important issue has been a great experience."

Launched in 2016, the Edgbaston Foundation aims to use cricket and the stadium as inspiration for positive change, with a particular focus on helping young people reach their potential by developing new skills and leading a healthy, active lifestyle.

As part of its work, the Edgbaston Foundation named St Basil’s as its lead charity partner, by supporting vulnerable young people who are at risk of homelessness.

Ravi Masih, Head of Community Engagement at Warwickshire CCC and lead of the Edgbaston Foundation said: “We’re very grateful to the team at Unilite for not only taking part in the Edgbaston Sleepout, but in also providing support, including a bag of items to make the night more comfortable for our fundraising sleepers.

“The Edgbaston Sleepout is our lead annual fundraising event, which has raised more than £39000 over the last two years.

“With homelessness becoming a more prevalent issue than ever before across the UK, it’s vital that we as a community come together and do all that we can to raise awareness and funds to help those at risk.”

To support the Edgbaston Staff team who are taking part in this year’s Edgbaston Sleepout, login to: https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/teamedgbaston