Birketts solicitors, in Ipswich, will host the second Ipswich Sleep Out in November to help raise money to tackle the problem of youth homelessness.

Birketts is teaming up with the Benjamin Foundation charity and will host the event - outside their offices in Princes Street in the heart of Ipswich, on November 2.

Over the past three years, Sleep Out Norwich and Sleep Out Ipswich has raised more than £90,000, which has been used to help tackle youth homelessness.

In that time more than 300 people have braved a cold November night, armed only with a sleeping bag and cardboard mat, to experience a taste of what it feels to be homeless and to raise money for the charity.

Chris Elliott, marketing and fundraising manager for the Benjamin Foundation said: “We are very grateful to Birketts for providing this very prominent venue for this year’s Ipswich Sleep Out. Such a central location is important to give those participating the opportunity to see for themselves what it might feel like to be homeless, with the noise, light pollution and general buzz of a busy town at night.

“Whilst it is not the same as the real hardship faced by rough sleepers, it is a great way to build awareness of the issue of homelessness in our region.”

Nigel Farthing partner and sponsor of the CSR committee at Birketts, said: “We are very happy to lend our support to The Benjamin Foundation’s Sleep Out. The number of people that are homeless across Norfolk and Suffolk is disturbing. Events like this are crucial in order to raise awareness and much-needed funds if we are to try and tackle the problem of homelessness in our region.”

The Benjamin Foundation works across Norfolk and Suffolk, including accommodation centres in Ipswich and Stowmarket.

A network of trained hosts also provide rooms in their own homes, for youngsters at risk of homelessness and to help keep young adults off the streets.

Registration for places is now open for Ipswich Sleep Out 2018. Go to benjaminfoundation.co.uk/ipswich-sleep-out