We slept out for homeless young people in 2019

The fundraising event, which was supported by The Co-operative Bank for a third consecutive year, raised over £86,000 and around 60 colleagues from all areas of The Bank, including the branch network, contact centres and head office took part.

Lisa Maxwell from Hollyoaks and Loose Women was a brilliant host, keeping the 200 fundraisers in good spirits as they joined in workshops focused on the issues surrounding youth homelessness in Manchester and across the UK.

As well as being entertained by music from Lauren Jean, Alex Hulme and Tony Smith, there was a bedtime story from Coronation Street’s Sue Devaney. But for many who were there the most poignant part of the night was the panel discussion with Centrepoint staff, Paul Brocklehurst and Mandy Pollitt, and singer Tony Smith. Tony shared his personal experience of being homeless as a teenager, while Paul and Mandy talked about how homelessness affects the young people they work with.

Jo Mayer, Managing Director of Customer Channels said:

“What a night! Congratulations to everyone for their incredible fundraising efforts. While the Sleep Out had a very serious side, it was a fun, friendly, relaxed atmosphere. We all left feeling very tired in the morning, but everyone I saw had smiles on their faces.”

At The Co-operative Bank, we believe that no young person in our society should be homeless or at risk of homelessness. That’s why we’ve partnered with Centrepoint since 2017 and why we continue to support the Centrepoint Helpline, which is funded through our partnership. In 2019 the Helpline received over 9,000 calls and provided specialist advice and guidance to over 5,000 young people with housing worries.

Mike Reeve, Customer Service Officer at The Co-operative Bank, said:

“Having read about Centrepoint’s work, I really felt passionate about helping such a fantastic and important cause by taking part in the Sleep Out. I think many people don’t realise how quickly things can deteriorate, leaving young people in really vulnerable situations. Centrepoint does a great job by helping them to develop life skills and self-confidence, as well as supporting them into safe housing.”

Learn more about our commitment to end youth homelessness through our partnership with Centrepoint here.

Could you swap a night’s sleep for one a bit more meaningful? Find out how to host your own Sleep Out event here.