Home Third Sector, Health & Education York business leaders challenged to fight homelessness by CEO sleepout

York business leaders challenged to fight homelessness by CEO sleepout

(l to r) Nicky Gladstone of Carecent, Cara Pass Field of Changing Lives,Paula Stainton of York FC Foundation, Jason Angus of Kitchen for Everyone and James Ford of Changing Lives

CEO Sleepout is challenging bosses from companies across York to take part in its next event held in the city.

On 16 April 2020 at Bootham Crescent, business leaders will give up their warm beds to literally ‘sleep out’ in a bid to raise money for local charities fighting to tackle homelessness and poverty.

CEO Sleepout has partnered with local charities York City FC Foundation, to bring together senior level executives and corporation owners from the local business community to spend the night under the stars, experiencing a little of what those without homes go through every single night.

Since the charity was founded in 2013, CEO Sleepout events have been held at venues across the country, including at Wembley Stadium, St James’ Park Newcastle, Old Trafford cricket ground, The Alnwick Garden and Lord’s Cricket Ground. Its events have raised more than £2.7 million to date.


Business leaders at this year’s event will be hoping to smash last year’s phenomenal achievement of £25,000

CEO Sleepout’s chief executive, Bianca Robinson, said: “Although it’s only for one night, and doesn’t come close to what homeless people experience night after night, CEO Sleepout is intended to raise awareness and lots of money to fight homelessness locally and nationally, but also to remind all of us in business about our social responsibility and that we have the power to make a stand against inequality

“We are very grateful for the many business people who have taken part in our fundraising events across the country and want to challenge the York business community to show their generosity and get involved.

“We’re inviting CEOs, senior level staff and their teams from across York to take part in what is sure to be a memorable and rewarding night.”

Bob Andrews chief executive of Benenden Health who raised almost £3,000 in last year’s sleepout, said of his experience: “I decided to take part because I do believe homelessness is an issue which needs more profile and is fixable. I wanted to do something to help raise the profile and raise some money, however, small a part.”

Last year’s top fundraiser was Conor Grant, chief operating officer of Sky Betting and Gaming, who raised more than £6,000 for the charities.

If you’re interested in signing up for the CEO Sleepout, in York, please visit the website.