Local MP signs up for annual Burton sleepout

Burton and Uttoxeter MP Jacob Collier (pictured) has signed up for the YMCA’s Sleepout on Friday, 25 October, and is encouraging local business people and residents to join him.

He will be spending the night at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium and will experience the discomfort, feelings and emotions associated with sleeping rough, albeit in a safe and secure way – while raising vital funds and awareness.

Jacob Collier MP recently visited the YMCA’s main hub on James Street, Burton and said: “I am really committed to working with our local YMCA, which does an incredible job supporting people in a position of hardship – often through no fault of their own.

“This autumn, their fundraising target is £75,000 and while there is a whole host of ways people can get involved, including donating to the foodbank, I would be hugely grateful if everyone who can, could contribute in some way.”

Burton & District YMCA CEO Paul Laffey added: “We are so pleased that Jacob Collier MP is taking part in this year’s Sleepout and are really grateful for his support. It’s fantastic to see him genuinely getting involved and we are working with him in a range of ways that include campaigning for:

• Investing in a significant programme of building new affordable housing around the country, to deliver the much-needed supply of low-cost, stable, good quality housing.
• Develop a cross-departmental strategy to end homelessness, which is tailored to individual people’s needs.
• Create a nationwide scheme of support for young people in supported accommodation to access the private rented sector when they are ready, through providing deposits and guarantors for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“I’d also like to thank Hardy Signs, Burton & South Derbyshire College, Else Solicitors, Riviera Travel and Unipart Mercia who have committed so far to the Sleepout again this year. They are some of our highly valued regulars!

“We are also grateful to the business box sponsors, some of which include Ginho, Dean & Smedley, Alexander Accountancy, AJR Management, Fuse 4, Corrivo, EEvolution, Ltd and Kings Office Supplies”.

There is still time to sign up to the Sleepout or become a box sponsor. Contact fundraising@burtonymca.org for more information.