As a Centrepoint supporter, Mark wanted to take a step out of his comfort zone and learn more about the cause he believes in. He talked to us about why he decided to attend Sleep Out alone and what a pivotal learning experience it was.
What made you decide to come along to the Manchester Sleep Out?
From my point of view, I’ve always been quite passionate about homelessness and feel for people who still have to sleep rough in 2026. I’ve never been close to it personally, thankfully, but it’s just something I don’t think should still be happening.
I already give a small amount to Centrepoint every month. Not a lot, but it’s what I do. Then I got a flyer, just one of the emails or letters you send out, and it had photos from the London Sleep Out, but that was a bit far for me. Then I realised you’d done Manchester the year before and were doing it again, and I thought, actually, that’s close. I could do that!
How did you find the fundraising?
I find fundraising difficult. I’m not a natural at asking people for money. Family will always help, so I knew I’d probably get to my £250 target through them, and I was comfortable with that.
What I did appreciate was the personal touch from Centrepoint before the event. I had people ringing to check if I needed help, and that made a big difference. It made me feel supported and looked after, which I really liked.
One activity that really stuck with me was the one showing bedding sites where people are found sleeping rough. I’ve continued to talk to my family since, that one really stayed with me.
How did you find the evening of panel discussions and the activities?
Honestly, I thought it was top drawer. All of it. I wasn’t expecting so many people to arrive in groups, which knocked me back a bit at first, because it can feel harder to join in when people already know each other. But once I started going around the activities, it just worked. I thought the activities were superb.
The people running the activities clearly had real passion for what they do, and that came across. That was quite humbling. You come away thinking you’ve had a tough day at work, then you hear what these people are dealing with every day. One activity that really stuck with me was the one showing bedding sites where people are found sleeping rough. I’ve continued to talk to my family since, that one really stayed with me.
I’m not a naturally confident person. I tend to stand back and observe. But I got involved because the environment made it easy. Someone would ask if you wanted to take part, and you’d think, yeah, go on. I’m here to learn!
How did you find the night itself?
I probably settled down around midnight and slept until about half six. I do a bit of camping anyway, so I’m used to sleeping for shorter periods, but I got a decent five and a half hours, which was great! I woke up at about 4am and security were still there through the night, which was reassuring. That mattered, especially knowing how much family worry about that side of things.
What are your top tips for anyone considering taking part in a Sleep Out?
I’d actually encourage people to do it even if they’re coming on their own. My wife said she’d come with me, but I felt that missed the point. If you’re sleeping rough, you’re usually on your own. And honestly, the setup worked, people were friendly, activities drew you in, and staff helped break the ice.
I’m not a naturally confident person. I tend to stand back and observe. But I got involved because the environment made it easy. Someone would ask if you wanted to take part, and you’d think, yeah, go on. I’m here to learn!
The venue felt safe, well organised, and purposeful. It wasn’t meant to be comfortable, but it was meant to be secure, and that balance was spot on.
It definitely made me stop and think, and it reminded me exactly why I support Centrepoint in the first place. I would do it again, without hesitation.
Want to take part in Sleep Out?
Join a Centrepoint Sleep Out or host your own - challenge yourself for one night so no young person has to face homelessness alone.