Call for North East business leaders to help tackle homelessness at 10th anniversary CEO Sleepout

Newcastle United Foundation is aiming to inspire hundreds of the region’s business figures to support the 10th anniversary CEO Sleepout fundraiser tackling homelessness and displacement in the region.

The official charity arm of Newcastle United will host the CEO Sleepout Newcastle challenge in March 2024 which sees participants exchange comfort and warmth for one night sleeping on the concrete stands of St. James’ Park.

Entrepreneurs, managing directors, executives and teams supporting the Foundation aim to raise over half a million pounds to support vulnerable people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, addiction, or long-term unemployment.

Figures recently published by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities highlighted that on any given night in 2023, an estimated 309,550 people were experiencing some form of homelessness – the majority of whom were in temporary accommodation.

Steve Beharall, Chief Executive of Newcastle United Foundation, said: “It can be difficult to imagine living without shelter or having somewhere safe to stay at night, however we know this is a reality for so many people across the North East.

“CEO Sleepout Newcastle is an opportunity to understand more about homelessness and its impact. We would encourage as many members as possible from the region’s generous business community to join us and to support those most in need.”

Running overnight on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 8pm until 6.30am on Friday, March 22, 2024, temperatures are expected to hover around freezing. But the Foundation anticipate dozens of executives will be braving the cold for North East charities working to reduce poverty.

Spaces are now available to get involved with CEO Sleepout Newcastle with fundraisers encouraged to raise £1,000 for the cause.

Bianca Robinson, CEO of CEO Sleepout UK, said: “This is an extra special year, because it’s the 10th anniversary of CEO Sleepout in Newcastle.

“Those who have risen to the CEO Sleepout challenge over the years know how important it is that we continue to unlock understanding, harness compassion and raise big funds to fight poverty and homelessness. And this time it’s more important than ever that we, as leaders, unite to fight homelessness.

“On the big night, those taking part will hear from people who have lived through and overcome homelessness and what help is available through the tireless work of our frontline partners – all working hard to change lives.

“By giving up your bed and home comforts for just one night to sleep outdoors alongside your peers, you could change somebody’s life.”

Since 2014, CEO Sleepout events in Newcastle has seen almost £400,000 raised for the people of Tyneside, with charities using donations to provide guidance to people in crisis who face eviction from accommodation or who are at risk of losing their home.

Funds raised during the sponsored sleepout will be split between Newcastle United Foundation, CEO Sleepout and worthy North East charities. The charitable organisations aim for at least 100 individuals to join the challenge.

The Foundation will use donations to support employability projects like its Street Football programme – free weekly sessions using sport to engage vulnerable young people and adults who may be facing homelessness or unemployment, recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, or dealing with mental health issues.

For further information or to sign up, visit ceosleepout.co.uk/newcastle

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