A band of valiant charity fundraisers braved temperatures barely creeping above zero to take part in the city’s annual Big SleepOut.
Around 400 intrepid souls wrapped up warmly in sleeping bags and snuggled down inside cardboard boxes to help raise vital cash for the St Basils event, which also aims to raise awareness of the problems faced by the city’s rough sleeping population and bring the issue to the attention of homelessness to the wider community.
Volunteers from all walks of Birmingham life slept out in the car park of St Basils’ Digbeth headquarters to collect sponsorship cash on Friday night (Dec 6).
Organisers were hoping to raise around £70,000 for the charity.
Staff from Birmingham Post publisher Trinity Mirror Midlands joined in the Big SleepOut. Editor Stacey Barnfield, commercial director Laura Bielinski, regional managing director Simon Edgley, publishing director Marc Reeves and HR officer Imogene Hughes joined the plucky fundraisers for the night under the stars.
They were well looked after during the event with entertainment provided by St Basils and even a canteen serving hot food and drinks organised by Birmingham department store Harvey Nichols.
Mr Barnfield said: “Our one night sleeping rough pales into insignificance when you consider the ongoing difficulties faced by some of the young people St Basils supports.
“It was brilliant fun, if a little chilly at times, but St Basils deserve credit for putting on a great event. All those who took part deserve a big pat on the back, and a warm bed when they get home.
“We’ve been busy drumming up support and at the last count we’ve raised over £2,000 sponsorship, which is fantastic.”
