Spending a week sleeping rough was never going to be easy, but I couldn’t have anticipated just how challenging the experience would be. From March 10th to 16th, I braved the elements as part of a challenge set by the residents and team at Sanctuary Trust. The timing couldn’t have been tougher – temperatures plummeted to zero degrees, accompanied by rain and hail. Ironically, the weeks before and after were much milder, reinforcing just how unpredictable and harsh life can be for those without shelter.
Many people have asked why I take on these challenges. My answer is simple: to raise awareness of the struggles faced by the most vulnerable in our society and to generate much-needed funds for Sanctuary Trust. The experience was a rollercoaster of emotions, but one thing remained constant – the overwhelming support I received. The media played a crucial role in amplifying the message, bringing attention to the realities of homelessness and the invaluable work of charities like Sanctuary Trust.
One of the most striking moments of the week was encountering people who were unaware of the scale of homelessness in Jersey. After hearing about the real-life challenges faced by individuals and families, many were eager to help, whether through donations or offering support. This engagement is a powerful reminder of the community’s generosity and willingness to make a difference.
Social media also played a pivotal role. A short video I filmed with Heather McMannus from the Housing Advice Service highlighted the steps people should take if they find themselves homeless. In a remarkable turn of events, a gentleman who had been struggling to find accommodation saw the video, reached out for help, and was successfully housed within days. This outcome demonstrated the immense potential of collaboration between government services and the charity sector.
Our initial fundraising target for the week was £2,000. Thanks to the incredible generosity of individuals and businesses, we more than doubled that, raising over £4,500. Special thanks go to Andium Homes and our sponsor Jersey Mutual for their support. Every penny raised goes directly towards our running costs, which continue to rise each year.
Beyond financial contributions, the kindness of friends and family made an enormous difference. Offers of hot drinks flooded in, and on one of the coldest nights, my friend Barna arrived with a flask of tea, which was a true lifesaver. Another friend, Dorothy, delivered a hot water bottle, which made the icy nights in my double sleeping bag a little more bearable.
Perhaps the most touching moment of all was when one of our residents got up at 6am each morning to bring me and my guests a flask of hot coffee. This small yet incredibly meaningful act was his way of expressing gratitude for the support he had received from Sanctuary Trust. It was a humbling reminder of the impact we have on the lives of those we help.
Throughout the week, I was joined by a diverse group of supporters who took part in the challenge, including Chief of Police Robin Smith, Deputy Sam Mézec, members of the Sanctuary Trust team, Trustee Martin Rowley, and several friends. Their willingness to experience, even briefly, what life without a home feels like was inspiring. We had deep conversations about the realities of homelessness, and I believe we all walked away with a new level of understanding.
One night, I spent the evening alone, reflecting on why I serve as Chair of Sanctuary Trust. It only strengthened my resolve to do everything possible to support those in need. However, my introspective night was interrupted by an unexpected guest – a rat scurrying around my shelter at 4am, likely in search of food. While I have a love for animals, I can confidently say that I don’t share the same fondness for rats in the dead of night!
Sanctuary Trust has faced financial uncertainty, but thanks to the generosity of individuals, successful grant applications, and strong partnerships, we continue to provide vital services. The reality is that running costs are ever-increasing, making ongoing support from the public and government essential. Our partnership with the government is growing, and there is now greater recognition of the value we bring to the island. By preventing homelessness, we are not only saving lives but also reducing the financial burden on public services.
Looking ahead, our dedicated team will continue to support over 30 men in our properties and many more through our outreach programme. We are committed to providing counselling, employment support, and working alongside government agencies to ensure that those in need receive comprehensive assistance. Our ultimate goal is to help individuals regain their independence, secure employment, and find stable housing, restoring their self-esteem and confidence in the process.
None of this would be possible without our incredible team, led by our CEO, Sarah Tumelty. Their unwavering dedication goes beyond the call of duty, often working long hours to assist men facing crisis situations. They create a welcoming, family-like environment that, for some, is the first sense of belonging they have experienced in years. As Chair of the Trust, I am committed to not only supporting our residents but also ensuring that our team is valued, as their work is the heartbeat of our organisation.
To everyone who has supported us – whether through donations, time, or simply spreading awareness – thank you. Your generosity enables us to continue our mission, ensuring that Sanctuary Trust remains a beacon of hope for those who need it most. We will keep striving to make a difference, one life at a time.
