Sleep Out with Nugent 2023 – Helping Provide Brighter Futures for Care Leavers
A group of incredible supporters and friends joined Merseyside-based charity Nugent on a cold and rainy evening on Friday 24th March to take part in their annual Sleep Out with Nugent event, sponsored by Krol Corlett Construction, at the iconic Strawberry Field site.
We’re proud to share that we raised an incredible sum of £14,082.12!
Organised by Nugent’s fundraising team, the event gave participants the opportunity to experience a small part of what vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals and families go through on a daily basis. Despite the cold and damp March weather, over 40 fantastic people took part on the night.
At the start of the evening, Ainsley Briscoe, Nugent’s Fundraising and Income Manager, shared an inspiring account of Nugent’s work and our dedication to care leavers. Kathleen and Lesley, from Strawberry Field, shed light on their impactful initiatives like the incredible strides made by their Steps to Work programme. We were moved by the heartfelt testimonials from beneficiaries who courageously shared their personal experiences from both Nugent and Strawberry Field. Finally, the High Sheriff of Merseyside, Lesley Martin-Wright, imparted her heartfelt well-wishes to the participants as they embarked on a challenging night ahead.
The evening also held several competitions to keep the spirits high including the Best Shelter competition and Lucky Dip.
Congratulations to the winners:
- Best Shelter Competition – participants from Krol Corlett Construction and Hays Specialist Recruitment.
- Lucky Dip – Nicola from Krol Corlett Construction.
- Best Fundraiser – EMS Healthcare who raised £1,495
In the morning, after a sleepless night, our participants gathered for a wellness and gratitude breathing session. Led by Claire Morton from Space and Freedom, the session aimed to get the participants ready for the day ahead. The participants were also treated to breakfast smoothies, with ingredients kindly provided by Contact Sport.
Thank you to Krol Corlett Construction for sponsoring the event. Krol Corlett operate across North West England and North Wales and has extensive experience in delivering construction projects for a variety of client and sectors. Simon Krol, Director, joined us on the evening, alongside 10 members of the Krol Corlett team who dared the sleep out.
The event was in collaboration with Strawberry Field who were also raising funds for their Steps to Work Programme, which helps young people with learning difficulties find employment.
How the funds raised can provide life-changing support
Since last year’s Sleep Out with Nugent, the New Beginnings team have witnessed the positive impact made from the fantastic amount raised from the event. Within the last year, 12 People who were using the service have successfully moved on to their own independent tenancies, and 13 people have moved in to receive support in gaining independence and control over their lives.
The Sleep Out 2022 funds have also helped to provide toiletries as well as other household essentials to the starter packs that New Beginnings offer to individuals transitioning out of homelessness across the region. This may seem like a small thing that only costs a few pounds, but to a person who lives with the insecurity of being homeless and is existing month-to-month on a low income – this is a huge difference!
This year’s fundraising focus
We want to support those transitioning out of care and combat the alarming risk of homelessness they face. According to Home for Good and Step by Step, a shocking statistic revealed that 1 in 4 care leavers face the prospect of homelessness by the time they turn 18. That’s why our fundraising focus is aimed at preventing this unfortunate outcome.
The funds raised will play a vital role in assisting individuals as they navigate the challenges of leaving care and reducing the risk of homelessness they may encounter. With these resources, we can bridge the gap by providing essential items and creating opportunities for work experience and skills development through our Brighter Futures programme.
We look forward to sharing the positive impact made from the funds raised at this year’s Sleep Out with Nugent.
For more details about this or any of our other upcoming events, or to register your interest for Sleep Out with Nugent 2024, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with Nugent’s fundraising team at fundraising@wearenugent.org.
