Volunteers will brave freezing temperatures and sleep rough next month in a bid to raise money for a homelessness charity that is celebrating its tenth anniversary.  

Wycombe Homeless Connection is hoping next month’s big sleepout will be their biggest and best yet to mark a decade since they began helping rough sleepers around High Wycombe rebuild their lives. 

The annual event will see around 100 “sleepouters” – including Bucks Free Press chief reporter, Stephanie Wareham – dig out their sleeping bags and cardboard layers in the church yard at either All Saints Church High Wycombe or Marlow on November 24. 

Organisers hope this year’s sleepout will enable the charity to ensure there are enough staff members to run their night shelter during the busy winter season ahead. 

Sheena Dykes, chair of trustees, is urging volunteers to sign up and help them make a difference.

She said: “As temperatures plummet at this time of year, many local people feel they would like to do something to help their local homeless charity. 

“The Big Sleepout is something that nearly everyone can do, as long as they wrap up well. We provide a safe night, having carried out risk assessments, and there are security marshals, toilets and hot drinks available all night long.”

The event has seen the likes of current Wycombe District Council chairman, Cllr Suzanne Brown, and former mayor Cllr Zia Ahmed sleep on the streets to raise money for the charity. 

  • Sign up at www.wyhoc.org.uk.