Jersey charity leader to spend six nights sleeping rough

Jersey Charity Leader to Sleep Rough for Six Nights to Raise Awareness

The chairman of Sanctuary Trust, a Jersey-based homelessness charity, is preparing to spend six nights sleeping rough in St Aubin to highlight the realities of homelessness. Tim Ringsdore will take on the challenge from 10 to 16 March 2025, all while maintaining his daily routine, including going to work.

Sanctuary Trust provides accommodation and support for men facing homelessness, offering them stability and hope in difficult times. Mr Ringsdore emphasised that the initiative aims to shed light on the varied and often unexpected circumstances that can lead to homelessness.

Experiencing Life on the Streets

During the challenge, he will be invited to share meals with the charity’s residents, giving him firsthand insight into their struggles and a chance to build stronger connections. This is not his first experience with such a challenge—he previously spent a night outside a different parish hall each month throughout 2023, an initiative suggested by the charity’s residents.

“Homelessness can happen to anyone—whether due to job loss, family breakdown, or bereavement," said Mr Ringsdore. "By taking on this challenge, I hope to raise awareness and encourage more people to support the essential work of Sanctuary Trust.”

Community Support

To further engage the community, Mr Ringsdore has invited others to join him for a night. Among those who have accepted the challenge are Housing Minister Sam Mézec, Chief of Police Robin Smith, and Sanctuary Trust Trustee Martin Rowley.

He aims to raise £2,000 to support the charity’s services and contribute to the fight against homelessness on the island.