In the bracing chill of Manchester, over 120 spirited souls wrapped up for a night at the iconic Old Trafford, but not for the usual football frenzy.
This gathering was all about the heart—a Sleep Out event organised by the Manchester United Foundation in collaboration with the homelessness charity Centrepoint, aimed at shedding light on the tough realities faced by Greater Manchester’s vulnerable youth.
For the third instalment of what’s become a poignant tradition at the Theatre of Dreams, the night wasn’t just about enduring the cold but enriching the spirit.
Danny Simpson and David May, ex-Reds who know a thing or two about tough matches, traded the comfort of their homes for the stadium’s disability platform, spending the night alongside the participants.
Lou Macari, a legend in his own right, wasn’t just there to share tales from his days on the pitch but to talk earnestly about his dedication to helping the homeless.
As the evening kicked off, real stories of hardship from young folks touched by Centrepoint were shared, moving participants to send back waves of support.
A Q&A with David and Danny capped the first part of the night, setting the tone before everyone settled under the floodlights for the night.
Danny Simpson, with his local roots, shared his connection to the cause, “Seeing the problem of homelessness worsen right in our backyard is tough.
Tonight’s about doing our bit, and it’s heartening to see the direct impact of the Manchester United Foundation and hear about the strides Centrepoint is making.”
The evening began with an emotive nod to history as John Shiels, CEO of the Foundation, recited a poem about the Busby Babes.
Founded in memory of these young legends, the Foundation today aims to champion the youth of Greater Manchester, with the Sleep Out focusing on those most in need as the winter draws near.
“Once again, I am humbled by the amount of support the Sleep Out has received,” John said. “It’s been great to see faces old and new supporting our work, and the work of Centrepoint, as we head into the harsh winter months.
“There are many young people currently living in dire conditions and it is our duty as a community to come together and help them,” he continued.
“I am delighted to see that so many people feel the same and have collectively raised a fantastic amount of money that will make a huge difference to the lives of vulnerable young people in our area.”
Michael Winehouse, Head of Relationship Fundraising for Centrepoint, added: “We’re so grateful to everyone who took part in the third Old Trafford Sleep Out, who have raised vital funds for both Manchester United Foundation and Centrepoint. This Sleep Out gets bigger and better every year.
“Our helpline and outreach staff are there to support the 1 in 52 young people currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the UK, but we know we need to do more as the current economic climate is severely worsening young people’s financial security and the housing shortage is pushing rents up to unaffordable levels.
“The awareness and funds raised at events such as the Old Trafford Sleep Out will go a long way in ensuring that more young people in Greater Manchester and beyond have the best chances of leaving homelessness behind for good.”
The event was also a showcase of solidarity from club partners who didn’t just spectate but participated actively:
- DXC Technology, the presenting partner, brought a team of 28.
- DHL, handling logistics, also had representatives bed down for the cause.
- WOW HYDRATE kept everyone hydrated, and Cadbury provided sweet comforts with chocolate bars and hot cocoa.
Donations are still being accepted. To contribute to this vital cause, click here to donate.