Turf Sleepout raises over £28,000

Prior to making their way pitchside with just a piece of cardboard and a sleeping bag for comfort, presentations from the leaders of Burnley FC in the Community, Emmaus Burnley and SafeNet offered insight into how they are all, in different ways, supporting homeless people in the town. Fundraisers also listened to the first-hand experience of an individual who was formerly homeless on the streets of the town but is now supported by Burnley FC in the Community.

“We received incredible support from so many business leaders, Burnley FC fans and people who simply wanted to do their bit. Despite the seriousness of the issue, we were all uplifted by the willingness and spirit of the fundraisers on what was a very wet and windy night.

Helen Gauder, managing director of SafeNet, said: “The SafeNet team of six were really proud to have been part of this fantastic fundraising and awareness raising event, to shine a spotlight on homelessness in Burnley and the causes of homelessness.

Stephen Buchanan, director of Emmaus Burnley and Preston, said: “What a fantastic event this was. The power of the three charities working together really struck me – it felt like coming to the stadium, we’d come to the heart of the town for a cause that connected so many people across our community.

To contribute to the ongoing fundraising for the Turf Sleepout event, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/turfsleepout2018.

Emmaus Burnley provides accommodation, support and work-based training and volunteering for up to 30 formerly homeless people. Jane’s Place is a Complex Needs Recovery Refuge. It is the first of its kind in the North and offers safe and secure temporary accommodation for women and children at risk of domestic abuse who also have additional complex needs.