DORSET residents are being encouraged to give up the comfort of their beds for one night and sleep out to raise money for young people facing homelessness.

The aim of youth homeless charity Step by Step's Sleep Out at Yours initiative, which takes place on Friday, October 8, is to get sponsored and raise money.

Whether you camp out in your garden, office car park or school grounds, you will be raising money to help young people who face the prospect of sleeping rough.

Head of income generation for Step by Step, Nick Goom said: "Sleep Out At Yours is quite a challenge on a cold October night. But we’ll also be making it fun, with live entertainment streamed throughout the evening.

"More importantly, this is an opportunity to raise vital funds for the young people who rely on our services."

Step by Step accommodates hundreds of young people each night and provides a safe place to live.

The charity also supports young people with counselling and personal development to help them move on to a more positive future.

Registering costs £5 and you can get involved by visiting www.stepbystep.org.uk/sleepout.