A REDDITCH charity will be holding a sleep out to raise awareness of rough sleeping.

Redditch Nightstop, a unique service which helps prevent homelessness in young people aged 16 to 25, is holding a sleep out at Redditch United's football ground this Friday, October 11.

The charity is calling on individuals from across a variety of sectors to brave the cold and give up their warm beds for one night to support the service and help to raise vital money for its work.

However, people must register beforehand if they wish to take part.

Sharon Holtom, volunteer coordinator, who only joined the charity last year, urged people to take part in the event.

Sharon, who will be joining in, said: "In the past there have been a number of different sleep outs in different locations throughout the town, but this year we wanted to bring it all together and make it a really big event.

"I'm really excited."

She added that the football ground will open up all of its facilities, including toilets, and there will be the chance to have a warm breakfast in the morning.

"We passionately believe that no person should face a frightening and dangerous night on the streets," she said.

"We know that these events pale in comparison to the reality of being homeless.

"However, we hope that as we all go back to our places of work and comfortable beds the following day the reality of homelessness as an issue and the small insight of that experience will further support of the crucial work that we do within the local community."

The charity has said that sleeping out will not be comfortable, and recommend warm clothes and a sleeping bag.

To register and receive a fundraising pack for this event, call 01527 66036 email sholtom@redditchnightstop.co.uk or contact the charity through Facebook.

On the night people will be tasked with creating the necessary shelter to protect them from the elements, experiencing just a glimpse of what it may be like to be homeless.