Pupils at Lawn Manor Academy took part in a powerful assembly on homelessness in Swindon as part of preparations for Threshold’s upcoming Sleep Out 26 fundraising event.
The assembly was delivered by Threshold, the Swindon charity supporting people affected by homelessness. Pupils learned about the different forms homelessness can take, including rough sleeping, sofa surfing, temporary accommodation and insecure housing, helping them understand that homelessness is not always visible.
Threshold also explained why homelessness is a growing concern locally, highlighting factors such as rising living costs, a lack of affordable housing, relationship breakdown, mental health challenges and job insecurity.
As part of the session, pupils were invited to create artwork and poetry to be displayed at Sleep Out 26, taking place on 20 February at Lawn Manor Academy. The event challenges participants to spend one night sleeping outside to raise funds and show solidarity with people experiencing homelessness. In addition, the school’s house groups are collecting food donations to be distributed by Threshold to people struggling to afford meals.
Year 10 pupils Makanaka and Asma said the assembly helped them better understand the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness.
Asma said: “Homelessness is a big struggle and not a lot of people get the opportunity to overcome it, but Threshold helps provide people with the support and education they need.”
Makanaka added: “It was positive to learn that even when you’re at your lowest, you can find your way back up. The Sleep Out would be pretty cool to do; it sounds fun to do it at school.”
Rachel Harris, Fundraising and Communications Manager at Threshold, said: “Homelessness is a complex issue and it’s important that young people understand the different forms it can take. The pupils at Lawn Manor Academy showed great insight and were keen to help shine a light on the homelessness crisis in Swindon. Sleep Out 26 is a great opportunity for the community to get involved in bringing an end to homelessness in our town, while helping us continue to support those who need it most.”
Sleep Out 26 is open to anyone aged 11 and above. Registration costs £7.50 for children and £15 for adults, with participants encouraged to raise sponsorship. More information and registration details can be found at www.threshold.charity/sleepout26.
The event has been supported by a £1,000 grant from Places for People, with Village Hotel Swindon, Gel Studios and Rapid Relief Team UK providing hot and cold refreshments. All proceeds raised will go towards helping people in Swindon find a safe place to live and the support they need to regain independence.
Lawn Manor Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust. More information is available at www.lawnmanor.org.
