AS FAR removed as it may be from the nightmare of genuine homelessness, with added security and biscuits, the Booth Centre's annual outdoor sleepover in the surrounds of Manchester Cathedral allows those more fortunate to experience a mere smidge of the harsh realities of sleeping rough for the night.

The estimated number of homeless per night nationwide is now 2744, 55% more than in 2010  

Following the success of last year’s episode, which raised in the region of £40,000, participants can join the challenge and help to raise awareness by either sleeping inside the Cathedral or going all out and sleeping within the grassy grounds from 8pm on Friday 6 November.

Staff will be on hand to assist sleepers, provide security and talk about the Booth Centre’s work whilst the Proper Tea cafe will be serving a dinner of bread and soup, plus a simple breakfast and beverages throughout the night. Those who like a lie in, however, may be disappointed as ‘wake up and clear up’ will be at seven sharpish - no room for sloths here.

Participants are encouraged to raise at least £150 and will receive a certificate for their efforts, which will help the Booth Centre retain its status as one of the country’s leading day centres for homeless people. Now in its twentieth year, the charity sees over 220 weekly visitors seeking food, education, activities and advice.

Sleepout speakerSleepout speaker

With rough sleeping seeing a year-on-year increase (the estimated number of homeless per night nationwide is now 2744, 55% more than in 2010) and more welfare cuts on the horizon, donations are vital in ensuring that the organisation can continue to resettle people into the community. Over 2000 recipients have already found new homes through its work, proof of an unrivalled experience in breaking the cycle of homelessness.

So get dusting off those thermals and sleeping sacks for some post-bonfire fundraising... let's just hope the warm weather maintains.

The event takes place at Manchester Cathedral on Friday 6 November at 8pm.

For more information, and to register, visit boothcentre.org.uk/manchester-sleepout