A ‘sleep out’ is being organised to help raise money for the Salvation Army, while at the same time giving participants a better understanding of what it’s like to be homeless. 

Wokingham Borough Council employees, alongside workers from local voluntary sector services, will be leaving behind their home comforts and rolling out sleeping bags and blankets to brave the weather in Howard Palmer Gardens. 

They will gain an insight into homelessness at night by experiencing cold, autumnal temperatures, uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, and limited sleep.    

Executive Member for Housing, Cllr Stephen Conway, said he is “delighted” that colleagues and partners are choosing to take part and helping to raise “vital funds” for the Salvation Army. 

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He added: “Homelessness can affect anyone and sadly, during these unprecedented times, many of our residents are struggling. 

Wokingham Food Bank has said the number of referrals it receives has doubled in the last 12 months. 

Manager Annette Medhurst told The News in September that the food bank was seeing an increase in people who had never used it before. 

‘Sleep out’ participants are hoping to raise awareness about the support available from the council for those who may either be homeless in the borough, or in danger of becoming homeless. 

Some 741 deaths of homeless people were registered in 2021 in England and Wales, up eight per cent on the previous year, estimates show. 

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The increase means the number of deaths has returned to pre-pandemic levels after a drop in 2020. 

Cllr Conway said the council are “committed to protecting our vital services to ensure those who cannot afford safe accommodation have the help, support and protection they need.” 

The construction of a temporary stackable housing site to help homeless families in the borough is also nearing completion.   

The 23 modular units at Grovelands Park in Winnersh are designed to provide accommodation to those in need while they await a more permanent situation. 

Residents and the wider community are also being invited to get involved, either by taking part in the November 24 ‘sleep out’, donating to charities or simply helping to spread the word. 

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Those wanting to participate are asked to sign up with the council in advance to ensure there is enough food and space available, but people are welcome to come for a cup of tea and show their support on the night even if they are unable to stay. 

Donations can also be made via the Wokingham Salvation Army just giving page with all the money raised going towards helping the charity provide support to those in need. 

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless within 56 days, you can make a referral via the Housing Jigsaw website.