7 June 2023

Poole-based girls’ school and sixth form, Parkstone Grammar has raised a total of £8,576.45 (including Gift Aid) as part of our annual Sleep Easy events.

Students adopted a homeless lifestyle for one night, constructing shelters out of cardboard and camping out overnight with peers and teachers to raise awareness of the difficulties of rough sleeping in the area.

Over the last five years, Sleep Easy events hosted by local businesses, schools, and community groups have raised over £100,000 to support the work we do across Dorset.  We also host our ‘BIG Sleep Easy’ event every year, bringing together businesses from across Dorset to take part in simultaneous efforts – with 2023’s event scheduled on 14th October 2023.

Rosie Moore, Pastoral Head of Sixth Form at Parkstone Grammar commented: “It was fantastic to see more than 100 of our students and staff turn out to support our fundraising efforts.  Such events provide an opportunity for our students to better understand and appreciate the meaningful difference charities like YMCA Bournemouth make in our local area.”

Sheena Dayman, Events Manager at YMCA Bournemouth added: “The support of local schools, businesses and other organisations will always play a key role in our fundraising efforts, and we want to thank Parkstone Grammar School and many other local contributors who continue to take part in these fundraising initiatives. The funding raised from local Sleep Easy events helps us continue supporting those who are homeless by providing a temporary, safe place to live alongside a range of services including counselling, health, and fitness.”

Last year, we housed and supported more than 175 individuals. To sign up to ‘Sleep Easy’ events and receive an information pack, or to become a sponsor, visit https://www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/housing/sleep-easys-2023.