We want to help Armed Forces veterans say firefighters ahead of Great Tommy Sleepout
“We want to raise awareness and much-needed funds for homeless Armed Forces veterans”
10 firefighters are set to brave the elements later this month by spending a night out under the stars to raise funds for homeless veterans.
The crew from Peterlee Fire Station are set to to take part in the Great Tommy Sleep Out event on Sunday, March 29.
The team hope to raise as much as possible for the Royal British Veterans Enterprise which supports ex-servicemen and women to rebuild their lives by creating jobs, providing homes, and building communities across the UK.
The firefighters will have only basic kit, spending the night in a sleeping bag under tarpaulin, to give them an insight into what it is like to be without proper shelter.
Peterlee Watch Manager Anthony Matthias, 54, said: “We want to raise awareness and much-needed funds to help provide safe homes, mental health support and a pathway back to independence for those who once served our country but have unfortunately fallen on hard times and are struggling to survive day to day.
“Some firefighters on the watch particularly wanted to raise awareness of the stigma around mental health and the negative effect it has on people and their lives.
“According to the Mental Health Foundation, people with mental health problems are among the least likely of any group with a long-term health condition or disability to find work, be in a steady, long-term relationship, live in decent housing and be socially included in mainstream society.
“We hope that people will support us by donating what they can as every little bit really does help.”
You can donate to the Fire crew’s cause via their Great Tommy Sleepout fundraising page.