Organisers are preparing for this year’s BIG Sleep Easy.

YMCA Bournemouth’s annual fundraiser is due to be launched at Barchester’s Parley Place care home on Thursday, April 18.

The charity’s biggest fundraising event of the year takes place on Saturday October 12.

Money raised will go towards YMCA Bournemouth’s work to support vulnerable people across Dorset.

To date, BIG Sleep Easy Bournemouth has raised over £130,000 to support homeless individuals in the local area and beyond.

BIG Sleep Easy invites colleagues, friends and teams from local businesses to take part in a night sleeping outside.

Participants build their own shelters to protect themselves from the often inclement October weather.

Alongside raising vital funds, the event aims to raise awareness and a greater understanding of the complexities of homelessness.

Statistics from early 2023 estimated that 1,095 individuals are considered homeless across the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole conurbation.

Gareth Sherwood, Chief Executive Officer,  YMCA Bournemouth, pictured left, said: “YMCAB has been transforming lives in our local community for over 140 years, we still strive to serve humanity with the same compassion, hope, faith and dignity.

“Today, as always, we are committed to serving the community we know and love.”

For local businesses and organisations, the BIG Sleep Easy can offer the perfect opportunity for team building, informal networking, and the chance to demonstrate an organisation’s community spirit and engagement.

Ian Girling, CEO, Dorset Chamber, said: “No one should be sleeping on the streets in the 21st century, this is a great cause.”

To find out more or if you wish to take part in the BIG Sleep Easy 2024, contact Sheena Dayman at 07824333505 or via email at [email protected].

You can donate to YMCA Bournemouth’s BIG Sleep Easy 2024 at https://justgiving.com/campaign/ymcabbigsleepeasy2024.