Advice staff to sleep out in Northampton to highlight problems of those who cannot afford the essentials

The sleepout takes place on Saturday November 29 into Sunday November 30 in Northampton. Those taking part are staff and trustees of Citizens Advice West Northamptonshire and Cherwell (CAWNAC).

They are CAWNAC’s chair Julie Baker, newly appointed trustee Cassi Bellingham from Banbury, senior manager Danny Atwere and chief executive Pat Coomber-Wood, who will sleep outside overnight to raise vital funds, according to our sister paper The Banbury Guardian.

The Sleepout aims to highlight the reality facing many residents in Northamptonshire and Cherwell, not only those at risk of or experiencing homelessness but also the increasing number of households who, despite having a roof over their heads, cannot afford to heat their homes and are living in cold, unsafe conditions.

Pat Coomber-Wood said: “Every day, people contact us because they are choosing between food, rent, heating and basic survival.

"Some are at real risk of homelessness and others are freezing inside homes they can no longer afford to heat. We’re taking part in the Sleepout to stand in solidarity with them and to raise the funds needed to continue offering crucial support.”

CAWNAC continues to receive strong support from West Northamptonshire Council and other local authorities and this partnership remains essential. However, demand for advice and crisis support is now far outstripping current capacity, and more funding is urgently needed to ensure no one is left without help.

Cassi Bellingham said: “The Sleepout won’t replicate the trauma of homelessness, but it will help raise awareness, and the funds raised will make a tangible difference to people in crisis.”

Members of the public can support the team by donating here, sharing the campaign on social media or spreading awareness of the issues facing local residents.

Citizens Advice West Northamptonshire & Cherwell is a local, independent charity. Although part of the national Citizens Advice network, it is responsible for raising its own income, relying on grants, contracts and community fundraising events like the Sleepout to deliver free, confidential advice.

Last year, CAWNAC supported thousands of residents dealing with debt, housing insecurity, relationship breakdown, benefits problems, employment issues, energy hardship and more.