The COVID-19 lockdown has this year causedso many changes to how society runs and our work here at Cornerstone is no different. Our supporters expected to take part in our annual Bis Sleep Out to support and raise funds for the work of Caritas with the homeless and rough sleepers this year. Originally to be held at Xaverian College, we are now asking those who would have come along to sleep outside in solidarity with those who have no home, to instead Sleep In. Anywhere in your home is fine as long as it's somewhere less comfortable than your bed: the garden, if you have one; the living room floor; the sofa; maybe even in the bath! It's entirely up to you!!

Your sponsorship will provide shelter and essential services for homeless and destitute people in our care. You can enter as an individual, as a family, with friends, as a team with work colleagues, or as an organisation. The Bishop of Salford John Arnold will also be taking part. We do not set a minimum sponsorship, but we encourage participants to raise as much as they can.

Since 2015 Cornerstone has been running Portakabins – that we call ‘pods’ – that serve as a temporary shelter for the destitute, the homeless and the rough sleepers in addition to our Morning Star Hostel and social housing provision.

There are many reasons why someone would end up sleeping rough or becoming homeless: from family breakdown, mental health problems, alcohol and drug problems, to those who are working with a zero hour contract who cannot afford accommodation.

There are too many people with low income but not enough social housing, especially for those who are single and between the age of 18 to 60. Our brothers and sisters who escaped violence in another part of the world in many cases find themselves rejected in the UK. Asylum seekers and refugees who cannot find affordable accommodation often become homeless.

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Children (under 18) can register together with their parents and will need their parent/guardian to fill in a consent form.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The Xaverian has a car park and there will be marshals to direct you.

What can I bring into the event?

You need to bring:

* A Sleeping bag

* Plenty of warm clothes and water proofs

* Cardboard or plastic sheet

* Torch

 You SHOULD NOT bring:

* Tent

* Radio or any audio devices that will have loud music

* Fireworks

* Anything that will disturb fellow sleepers

Download our information pack, consent form and sponsorship form on http://bigsleepout.cornerstonecds.org.uk/

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Please contact info@cornerstonecds.org.uk or call 0161 2328888 and speak to Lorraine.