A Despatch and Stock Controller at one of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries took part in a sleep out in Bristol and helped raise £3,500 for a homeless charity.

Sara Bowie, who works at Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford, took part in the annual fundraiser in Bristol with four of her friends in aid of 1625 Independent People (1625ip).

The 54-year-old, who lives in Norton Canon but grew up in Bristol, explained: “1625ip is a Bristol based charity that has been supporting homeless 16-25-year-olds for more than 30 years. It works with around 2,000 young people in the South West every year.

“I got to know about the charity and the fantastic work it does as my friend, Jo Lea-Jones, is the Corporate Services Director at the organisation.

“I wanted to do something to raise money and awareness so Jo and I, with three of our other friends, Sue Jenner, Sue Walters and Sharon Howells, decided to take part in the sleep out. I absolutely hate camping, sleeping bags and being cold but I hate the idea of homelessness more, particularly the thought of young people sleeping rough.

“The annual all-night Sleep Out took place in the courtyard at The Station, a central hub for young people in Bristol run by YMCA and the Creative Youth Network. The event gave us the smallest taste of what it’s like for someone who has to sleep out in the cold.

“We’re delighted that we managed to raise a staggering £3,500 for 1625ip. A huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who sponsored us. Every penny goes to help young people get back on their feet and off the streets.”

1625ip provides essential services to young people and partners with agencies across the South West so together they can change lives. 

The charity provides a broad range of care for young people from securing homes, teaching life-skills, offering advice, helping access training and job opportunities. Its aim is to help young people to live happily and independently. 

To sponsor Sara visit the team’s JustGiving page – https://bit.ly/2Ov0Sd2.