Councillor Daniel Lister slept on the streets in Hereford City Centre on Friday, October 5th, to raise money for the Supported Housing for Young People Project (SHYPP) charity.

SHYPP provides 16 to 25 year olds across Herefordshire with housing, training and employment opportunities. They also provide a range of accommodation suitable for young people at different stages of their lives.

Cllr Lister said: “I started to get worried on route and panic knowing that I didn’t know anyone, nor what was really going to happen.

“There was a couple of seating areas set up and a large open area for us to sleep, after a safety talk we were shown the pile of cardboard and left to it. I soon made my bed and went off to talk to others whom where taking part.

“It was so nice being able to talk to complete strangers about their lives and why they where taking part. I wasn’t surprised that most of those had been homeless, lived in half way houses, or received help from an outreach program.

“All of these people now have jobs, families, homes, and have done well in later life because of the work and support of organisations like SHYPP."People think all homeless people look rough because of drugs or drink, that’s not always the case, lack of sleep and being wet and cold can do that!”

Part of the reason Cllr Lister wanted to take part in the night on the streets is because it is a cause close to his heart. He believes that if it wasn’t for the Youth Workers who helped him when he was homeless, he wouldn’t be where he is today.

He said: “I have been there myself and now I’m doing ok in life. There’s always a reason why someone is on the streets and it’s not always due to wrong doing.

“Take a moment to talk with them, what you can learn can be life changing! A smile and hello goes a long long way.

Cllr Lister packed up to go home at 6.30am and went to Morrisons afterwards. He said: “As I stood there trying to work out the best deal for coffee, I just cried thinking if I was homeless I’d just be happy for a hot drink. How quickly we fall back into the life we have.”

Although Cllr Lister’s night on the streets is over, donations can still be made until October 19th by visiting the donation page https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/daniellister1

Cllr Lister wishes to thank all those who have donated so far to help change someone’s life. See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here