Business leaders from across South Wales have given up their beds and sleeping bags to spend a night under the stars at Cardiff Castle as part of CEO Sleepout Cardiff, a national initiative raising vital funds to tackle homelessness and poverty.
The event brought together professionals, entrepreneurs and charity leaders in a show of solidarity with those facing homelessness, all while raising money for organisations working on the front line of the crisis.
Among those taking part was Rachel Woodridge, Chair of the Pettifor Trust, an animal welfare charity based in Swansea. Rachel raised £525 from social media funding in the lead-up to the event.
Speaking after the sleepout, Rachel said: “There are so many animals affected by homelessness and it has inspired me to think about our own campaign, similar to this in the future.”
CEO Sleepout is a UK-wide initiative that invites business leaders to spend a night sleeping rough to raise awareness and funds for those without a safe place to call home. Since its launch in 2013, the charity has raised more than £5 million, helping to fund vital services and community projects tackling homelessness across the country.
Funds raised from the Cardiff event will go towards local charities working tirelessly to support people experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty, providing shelter, hot meals, clothing and long-term support to help rebuild lives.
