Trowbridge unites against homelessness

Over 40 fundraisers bedded down for the night at the County Hall to support local homeless Christian charity Alabaré's Big Sleep, whilst members of the Trowbridge Youth Parliament did their bit for the cause by sleeping out for the night over at the Town Hall.

Laura Knight, Alabaré’s Community Engagement Officer said:

“Our BIG Sleep events are essential in raising funds and awareness towards supporting the homeless in our local communities. It has been fantastic to see the people of Trowbridge both young and old come out tonight to make a stand against the issue.”

Those taking part in the BIG Sleep at the County Hall featured members of Wiltshire Council’s leadership team including Cabinet Members Allison Bucknell and Ian Blair-Pilling; Chief Executive Officers Alistair Cunningham and Terence Herbert; and Directors Lucy Townsend, Robin Townsend, Sam Fox, Claire Edgar, Emma Legg, Simon Hendey, Jessica Gibbons, Tracy Daszkiewicz and Ian Robinson.

Cllr Richard Clewer, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“We were delighted to open County Hall for the evening to help raise funds for such an important cause.

“The BIG Sleep is a fantastic event to be part of and it was great that so many council members and officers were involved on the night.

“Our outreach teams work closely with charity partners, to provide support to rough sleepers in Wiltshire to help them to turn their lives around whenever they are ready to access that support.

“The awareness and funds that the BIG Sleep generates can only help to provide support to ensure there are always routes off the streets.”

Alabaré's homes, drop-in centres and training facilities provide training and support to homeless and vulnerable people. Last year, Alabaré provided over 1,000 hot meals and emergency shelter to 110 rough sleepers during severe weather. The funds raised from these events will go towards supporting Alabaré’s services in both Trowbridge and Chippenham.