Sleep Easy returns to tackle homelessness

YMCA Lincolnshire’s Sleep Easy event will be held on Friday March 7, on the Dean’s Green at Lincoln Cathedral. 

The annual event invites members of the community to spend a night sleeping outdoors (between 7pm to 7am), raising funds and awareness for the vital services provided to those at risk of homelessness in Lincolnshire.

Sleep Easy participants will brave the elements by sleeping in makeshift, cardboard shelters in a bid to experience a small fraction of what homeless individuals face on a nightly basis. 

“One of the things that always stands out for me at Sleep Easy is that we get to go home after it and have a warm bath or shower,” said Helen Wright, Director of Housing at YMCA Lincolnshire. 

“What we need to remember is that for those actually rough sleeping, this isn’t a possibility and they have to do this night after night.”

This year’s Sleep Easy is expected to draw a diverse group of participants, including local businesses, families, and individuals committed to supporting the ongoing efforts of YMCA Lincolnshire. 

All funds raised through the event will go directly toward supporting the charity’s range of services aimed at preventing homelessness, including emergency accommodation, outreach programs, and essential life skills support.

“This event is more important than ever, as we continue to witness rising levels of homelessness in Lincolnshire,” said Chris Kirkwood, Acting Chief Executive at YMCA Lincolnshire. 

“By participating in Sleep Easy, not only are attendees raising vital funds, but they are also gaining a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by homeless individuals every day. We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of the community and can’t wait to see everyone come tighter for this worthwhile cause.”

To take part visit Sleep Easy 2025 - YMCA Lincolnshire