The plight of homeless people was brought to the fore on Friday night as volunteers braved the wind, rain and snow while sleeping rough in a church car park. We’re very proud of Linda Bird, our very own Board member, who braved the challenging weather to help raise money for Teesdale YMCA.

The 11 participants raised £2,000 for YMCA Teesdale as part of the charity’s national Sleep Easy Week, which sees branches from across the country experience the harsh realities homeless people face every night.

The group, based in Barnard Castle, had just five weeks to prepare for their first challenge as part of the campaign and the whole community rallied round to offer their support.

As well as our Board Member, Linda, taking part in the big sleep out, we were delighted to be able to donate £250 towards the cause.

Rachel Dyne, YMCA Teesdale Operation Director, said there were 3,509 young people who were recognised as homeless in County Durham and all the money raised would be put back into the area.

She said: “We’re thrilled about the success and I’d like to thank everyone who took part and spent the night out with us.”

She added: “Thanks to your support we can now help even more young people than before and support them to realise their full potential. One night out can make a lifetime difference.”

To make a donation or volunteer for YMCA Teesdale visit ymcateesdale.org.uk