A HOMELESSNESS charity is calling for people to join its “sleep out at home” event to support the rising number of homeless people on Brighton’s streets.

Sussex Homeless Support, which provides eight street kitchens a week, is asking for people to “sleep anywhere but their bed” on December 12. It said: “For one night only, we are asking that you sleep in your garden, shed, garage, camper van or camp out in your lounge. Involve your children and ask friends and neighbours to host their own ‘sleep in’ and spread the word.”

The charity is asking that people do their home “sleep outs” as part of a sponsored event or to donate to it directly. Sussex Homeless Support received £19,000 from the sleep out held at Hove Lagoon last year, which was part of the official Big Sleep Out event.

With the risk of homelessness for many people rising, the charity is hoping the funds raised can help cope with the increasing demand on its services.

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It said: “All donations go a long way, and we will not be able to get through this winter without your support.”

Earlier this year, The Argus reported that there had been a 61 per cent rise in homelessness among young people during the coronavirus crisis.

The number of homeless 16 to 25 year olds in Sussex and Surrey has soared as pent-up families break up amid the pandemic.

This is according to the charity YMCA DownsLink Group, which provides supported accommodation and housing advice.