The inaugural Luton CEO Sleepout takes place on November 28 at Kenilworth Road.

CEO Sleepout aims to raise £30,000 at the event, funds which will support homelessness causes throughout Bedfordshire.

The sleepout’s launch comes as bleak new Government data show a record 320,000 people are now homeless in the UK – a figure that’s increased by eight per cent in the past year.

For the charity’s CEO Bianca Robinson, the event is “urgently needed”.

“The UK’s never had so many people without a secure roof over their head, and that has put a tremendous strain on services across Bedfordshire,” said Bianca.

“Everything from the cost-of-living crisis to sky-high rental costs is pushing thousands of people towards the streets, including many professionals in full-time work for whom the idea of becoming homeless was rightfully once unfathomable.

“That’s why the Luton CEO Sleepout is so vital, as local charities are already doing everything they can to help people across Bedfordshire but in many cases, they are drowning in demand.

“The event’s goal is to raise as much money as possible for local causes working on the frontline supporting local people in what’s often their darkest hour.”

Launched in 2013, CEO Sleepout has rapidly grown into a fundraising powerhouse.

To date, the charity has raised over £4.5 million, supporting over 200 good causes along the way.

Charities supported by the Luton CEO Sleepout include NOAH Enterprise, a charity that helps people experiencing homelessness and exclusion.

Money is raised by participants, typically from the local business community, grabbing a sleeping bag and braving a cold night under the stars.

“The idea isn’t to try and replicate what it is like to be homeless, but to instead widen people’s appreciation of the harsh conditions some face every single night,” added Bianca, who will have slept out nine times in just two months by the time she takes part in the Luton event.

“It isn’t an easy or comfortable night, but there are reasons people come back to take part every year. Not only is the atmosphere unmatched, but the experience is sobering and one you will never forget.”

To sign up or donate to the Luton CEO Sleepout, visit https://ceosleepout.co.uk/luton/