The YMCA has launched Bournemouth's big sleep easy to tens of people and 15 businesses. 

Over 40 people representing 15 businesses attended the launch event of the YMCA Bournemouth's big sleep easy which will be held on October 12 at Talbot Heath School.

Sheena Dayman from the YMCA gave a talk on the impact YMCA Bournemouth has had on providing help and support for people experiencing homelessness alongside hearing from Mehdi who found himself homeless and dependent on prescription drugs and alcohol before YMCA helped change his life.

He said: "To me, it was like a palace. Whenever I think of it, I can’t tell you how happy it makes me, so content. I had a place where I was safe.

"YMCA Bournemouth gave me a sense of family, talked to me, advised me, arranged courses and gave me the space to unravel what happened. It was the best opportunity I ever had.

“YMCA Bournemouth can change your life. It changed mine.”

Medhi now owns several businesses in the BCP area.

The big sleep will start at 6.45pm and end at 6.30am on October 13 with individuals, groups, clubs, and local businesses invited to take part. 

The event aims to raise awareness of the local and national homelessness issue whilst also raising essential funds to enable the YMCA to continue its work. 

A spokesperson for YMCA said: "The BIG Sleep Easy offers a fantastic challenge to individuals and companies to set themselves a fundraising target, build the best cardboard shelters and ‘survive’ until morning.

"For local businesses and organisations, it’s also the perfect opportunity for team building, informal networking and the chance to demonstrate an organisation’s community spirit/ involvement."

The event will be sponsored by solicitors Lester Aldrige, Electix and Barchester Care Homes which hosted the 2023 event. 

Partner at Lester Aldridge, Mark Benham, said: "I’m extremely proud that Lester Aldridge continues to support such an important charity, which provides local services and projects that give children, young people and vulnerable individuals hope for a better future."

To find out more or if you wish to take part, contact Sheena Dayman on 07824333505 or via email sheena.dayman@ymcabournemouth.org.uk.