BIG Sleepout total revealed

We are pleased to announce that the second annual BIG Sleepout event, which took place on Friday, 24th October has raised a vital £13,485.07.

Hundreds of supporters slept rough for the night at Parkgate Shopping, Rotherham, in an effort to raise funds and awareness to support the 4000 children and young people in South Yorkshire that run away from home each year.  They were allowed minimum comforts on a night which reached freezing temperatures, and had to sleep with only the aid of a sleeping bag, pillow and cardboard box.  They were asked to help raise funds for the charity by asking for sponsorship in return for their night on the tarmac. 

SAFE@LAST announced the total raised, which it is hoped will still increase as more money comes in, during some Carol Singing at Parkgate Shopping last Saturday.  Deputy Mayor of Rotherham Councillor Shaukat Ali and the Deputy Mayoress Miss Wajida Naseem were present to hear the announcement on behalf of the Mayor of Rotherham Cllr Ann Russell who took part in the BIG Sleepout and said “It was a great privilege to take part in the SAFE@LAST BIG Sleepout which really brought home to everyone involved what it must be like for a young runaway to sleep rough on the streets.  Even though we were well prepared and in a safe environment it was a tough night, it must be a 100 times worse for a young person experiencing that in reality.  I think its important people support SAFE@LAST so they can continue to provide essential services for vulnerable young people in South Yorkshire.”

Mark Smith, SAFE@LAST Operations Manager said “This is a fantastic amount raised by all those that took part in the BIG Sleepout.  We are still expecting some money to come in and hope that this total will increase by another £500.  SAFE@LAST receives very little statutory income and is dependent on events like these to continue providing our services.  This money will go directly to supporting Children and Young People who are at risk through running away this Christmas ensuring our services remain available to them over the Christmas period.”

Several supporters of SAFE@LAST sang carols at Parkgate Shopping last Saturday and were supported by Bramley Brass Band.  They were also joined by stars from Handsworth & Hallam Theatre Company who will be appearing in the forthcoming pantomime ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ at The University of Sheffield Drama Studio in January.

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