Residents from across Cheshire spent the night outdoors in Crewe to raise awareness of youth homelessness on the evening of Friday 6 March.

Over 25 people gathered at the grounds of Christ Church, Prince Albert Street, to take part in YMCA Sleep Easy 2026, organised by YMCA Cheshire.

The annual challenge encourages participants to give up the comfort of their beds for one night and sleep outside, helping to highlight the realities faced by people without a safe place to stay - while raising funds to support housing and wellbeing services for young people.

As evening fell over Christ Church, participants arrived with sleeping bags, cardboard boxes and extra layers to prepare for a cold night under the open sky.

19 people stayed overnight, including community members, supporters of the charity and local leaders keen to show their support.

The evening began with a welcome from YMCA Cheshire's fundraising manager, Tammi McClure, followed by words of encouragement from the organisation's board chair, Phil Pitcher.

19 people stayed overnight at Christ Church, including community members, supporters of the charity and local leaders keen to show their support (Photo: YMCA Cheshire).

Participants then gathered around a fire to warm up, sharing burgers, hot drinks and conversation before settling down into their cardboard shelters for the night.

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Mia, who took part in the event alongside her best friend Molly, said building their shelter from cardboard was all part of the challenge.

She told Nub News: "It's my first time doing something like this, but I wanted to take part because my mum does a lot with the YMCA and I wanted to help support the work they do for people in need."

Participants said the cold temperatures and unfamiliar surroundings offered a small insight into the uncertainty faced by people without stable housing.

Many young people are at risk of homelessness due to rising housing costs and insecure tenancies. Without stable accommodation, young people can face barriers to education, employment and wellbeing.

Money raised through Sleep Easy will support the services delivered by YMCA Cheshire, including supported accommodation, counselling, youth programmes and family services.

So far, £4,123 has been raised through online and offline donations, bringing the fundraising effort closer to its £5,000 target.

Chair of the Board at YMCA Cheshire, Phil Pitcher, said: "This is my second Sleep Easy and I'm taking part because I strongly believe the work YMCA Cheshire does is incredibly important.

"Events like this help raise awareness and vital funds so we can continue supporting young people who need a safe place to stay and the chance to rebuild their lives."

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As morning approached and participants packed away their makeshift shelters, the night served as a reminder of how community action can help tackle complex social challenges.

While the experience lasted only one night, organisers hope it will inspire greater understanding and continued support for young people facing housing insecurity.

There is still time to support the campaign, with donations remaining open online HERE.

READ MORE: Consultation launches for 2,100 homes and new employment space in Crewe.

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