ARE you able to help a local charity raise some vital funds so that it can support those in need at this time.

Homeless 4 a Night is an initiative to raise funds and support some of the the most vulnerable people in Mid Devon.

CHAT (Churches Housing Action Team) is tackling homelessness, avoiding evictions and bringing hope in Mid Devon.

CHAT believes that everyone is entitled to decent, secure and affordable accommodation - somewhere to call "home", and food to eat.

CHAT is asking people to join in and take part in a fun sleeping adventure in their back garden or with a friend, all under the stars. The community challenge is to sleep under the stars (you can use a tent if you wish) for one night between Friday, June 25 and Sunday, June 27 and raise some vital money for those who may not have a roof over their heads.

You can make it into "Homeless 4 a Night" and only take a sleeping bag and some cardboard or you could create a full box fort, decorate it and then sleep in it.

Last year Jean, aged 92, was the charity’s star fundraiser!

This year so far, James, aged eight, started early and slept out for a whole two months!

"I wanted to keep sleeping out because I wanted to raise money for CHAT so everyone could have a fair life" said James.

This shows there is no age limit, you can get involved by using an alternative sleeping space and raise awareness for those in need!

A charity spokesman said: "It’s amazing to see such enthusiastic support from our local people."

CHAT hopes people will aim to raise a target of £25 sponsorship, all to support those who are homeless in Mid Devon.

Everything you need to sign-up can be found at: https://chatmid.org/homeless4anight/ .

If you can’t use a garden, the charity suggests "Sofa surfing" or even a cardboard castle?

CHAT’s sleep-out patron, The Hon Mrs Elizabeth d’Erlanger DL, Deputy Lieutenant of Devon, said “For many people this past year has been incredibly difficult and for those without a home or about to lose their home, just devastating.

"Please, please give all the support you can to CHAT who are immensely supportive to those who are struggling.”

Alison (CHAT Manager) said: "We have had an incredibly busy year and as people continue to struggle with money issues we want to be there to provide free, confidential support and advice."

For further details, telephone CHAT on 01884 255606 or visit the website: https://chatmid.org/ .

In addition to supporting those who are homeless, CHAT also offers free, confidential impartial advice face-to-face, online and over the telephone.

As well as tackling homelessness, avoiding evictions and bringing hope, CHAT offers housing advice, tenancy support and debt and money advice. It also runs a food bank and fuel poverty fund.