Spending one night on the street to help prevent youth homelessness

On October 2, 2009, local Putney resident, Paddy MccGwire, will give up his bed to sleep on the streets, experiencing what it's like to be homeless for one night, and raising money for the charity Action for Children.

The nationwide event – Byte Night – will see Paddy, who is also on the Byte Night Board, and over 700 other participants take part in the sleep out, raising money to tackle the root causes of youth homelessness and help vulnerable young people, such as care leavers, access safe and secure accommodation.

This year's events, held across the country, pledge to banish the recession blues by raising £500,000 for Action for Children. Byte Night is the IT industry's annual sleep out in aid of youth homelessness. Each year, over 500 people from the IT and business community give up their bed for one night to experience a little of what it might be like to be homeless. The money they raise helps Action for Children tackle the root causes of youth homelessness.
 
It all began 11 years ago when 30 individuals from the IT industry slept out and raised £35,000. Since then the event has grown to 500 sleepers raising almost £470,000 in 2008 alone. Patrons, sponsors and sleepers include celebrities and leading figures, CIOs, systems developers, business managers, marketers and more.

“ Being involved in a campaign like this highlights just how real homelessness is. Spending one night without creature comforts is nothing compared to what some children have to go through every night on the street.” said Paddy(pictured left).

Polly Neate, Executive Director of External Relations and Communications at the charity, says: “Since its inception 11 years ago, Byte Night has gone from strength to strength. The event has allowed us to continue to provide safe and secure accommodation to vulnerable youngsters at risk of homelessness. The support from all those involved in Byte Night is second to none.”

Championed by actress Jenny Agutter, the event traditionally attracts support from celebrities and sports stars. Last year, chef Ainsley Harriott, comedian Alexei Sayle and the Arsenal football team all pledged their support. More big names are likely to join the 2009 campaign.

Sleep out events will take place in London, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Manchester, and the Thames Valley on 2 October.