November 14, 2017 11.57 am This story is over 76 months old

Lincoln volunteers to sleep under the stars for the homeless

The stable will be built outside St Nicholas’ Church.
Some of the volunteers taking part in the challenge on December 9

Volunteers from churches throughout the city will be sponsored sleep outside in aid of the Church Urban Fund’s work supporting homeless people throughout England.

Shoppers at the Christmas Market will be able to watch a stable being constructed from 1.30pm on Saturday, December 9, before volunteers spend a night out in the cold.

The stable will be built outside St Nicholas’ Church on Newport and will be the focal point for the Advent Sleepout Challenge.

Nick will be taking part in the challenge for the third time

A group of under 18s will also be taking part, safely inside the St Nicholas’ Centre, however conditions will be basic.

Homelessness is on the rise throughout the UK and a recent report published by Shelter found a 45% increase in the East Midlands since last year.

Reverend Hugh Jones, who will be sleeping under the stars with the rest of the group, said: “It’s easy to forget that the Christmas story is actually all about homelessness, poverty and social exclusion.

“Every year, the Sleepout reminds me how lucky I am to be able to go home the next night, and sleep in my own bed.

“This year, churches across the city of Lincoln will join together as a Deanery to take on the challenge of thinking about those who don’t have the things we take for granted, and do something to help.”

To sponsor the group, click or tap here.

Volunteers will gather at the stable at 8pm. For more information contact Fiona Stafford-Baker-Thomas by emailing [email protected].