Crewe community sleeps out to raise thousands for young people facing homelessness

Sleeping bags, cardboard shelters and warm community spirit filled the grounds of Christ Church in Crewe on a cold night as people gave up the comfort of their beds for YMCA Sleep Easy 2026.

And so far, the sum of £4,123 (online and offline donations) has been raised towards the £5,000 target, thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters

The annual event, organised by YMCA Cheshire, brought together members of the community for a symbolic overnight sleep-out aimed at raising awareness and funds for young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

As darkness fell over Prince Albert Street, participants laid down cardboard beds and unrolled sleeping bags on the church grounds, preparing to spend the night outdoors. While the experience lasted only one night, it offered a small glimpse into the harsh reality faced by thousands of young people across the UK who do not have a safe place to call home.

Over 25 people from across Crewe and the surrounding area came together for the challenge. Nineteen of them including the Mayor of Crewe, Sally Graham, supporters of the charity and community groups keen to stand in solidarity with vulnerable young people slept on the grounds.

The evening started with participants standing over the fireplace with a welcome address by the Fundraising Manager, Tammi McClure. The Mayor of Crewe, Sally Graham and the Board Chair at YMCA Cheshire, Phil Pitcher also gave a word of encouragement and gratitude to participants.

Afterwards, participants shared hot drinks and burgers, conversations and reflections before settling down for the night under the open sky.

The Sleep Easy initiative is designed not to recreate homelessness, but to encourage people to think about the challenges many young people face and to help generate vital support for services that provide practical help and safe accommodation.

Jack, the youngest participant in the event from Nantwich, said: “I’ve done camping in the garden before, but sleeping out was definitely different. I wanted to take part to support the YMCA and raise awareness for people who have to face nights like this for real.”

Participants spoke about how the cold; the unfamiliar surroundings and the lack of sleep helped them better understand the vulnerability faced by people who have nowhere safe to stay.

Across England and Wales, an estimated 118,000 young people are at risk of homelessness each year, with rising rents, insecure tenancies and limited affordable housing among the major causes. For young people without family support or stable accommodation, the consequences can be severe, affecting their wellbeing, education, employment prospects and long-term stability.

Funds raised through Sleep Easy help support the essential services provided by YMCA Cheshire and its base on Gresty Road, including safe bed spaces and practical guidance for young people who need support to move forward with confidence.

Tammi McClure, Fundraising Manager, praised the dedication of those who took part in the overnight challenge.

She said: “What makes Sleep Easy so powerful is seeing people from across the community come together for those who need support the most. For many of us this is just one night, but for some young people the uncertainty of where they will sleep is a daily reality. The support shows that Crewe is a community that cares and wants to be part of the solution.”

As morning arrived and participants packed away their cardboard shelters, there was a strong sense of shared purpose among those who had taken part.

There is still time to donate and support the essential work YMCA Cheshire provides. Every contribution helps change lives. Go to

 https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ymcacheshiresleepeasy.