A PAIR of staff from one of Keighley's biggest social housing providers will sleep rough to raise funds for a local homeless cause.

Income officer Jenny Baines has organised the fundraising after being inspired by the charity, ‘Simon on the Streets’ at an event for housing professionals run by Incommunities’ GEM career development programme.

On Saturday (April 14) Jenny will join husband Jason, who also works for the housing group, and Philippa Darbandi from Bradford Academy as they swap the comfort of their homes for sleeping bags.

They will be "sleeping out" in Shipley.

Simon on the Streets provides vital practical and emotional support for homeless people across West Yorkshire.

Jenny said: “I was determined to do something positive for the charity after hearing about their fantastic work at a recent GEM event looking at the problem of homelessness.

“There are so many people who face night after night on our streets. Sleeping out – even for just one night – gives us the chance to support the great work Simon on the Street do to help those struggling in their lives.

“Some of my friends think I’m crazy but they also want to support me.”

Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group chief executive, said: “Jenny has shown great initiative in organising this fundraising activity and it’s wonderful to see colleagues showing their support for this fantastic charity.

“Jenny has taken inspiration from Simon on the Streets’ work with our GEM recruits to raise awareness of the causes and personal impact of homelessness. Hopefully, the ‘sleep out’ can raise lots more funding for the charity.”

Fahad Khan, business development manager for Simon on the Streets said: “As a charity we rely solely on the support of the public. For that reason, we're incredibly thankful to Jenny for her effort."

You can show your support by clicking https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jenny-baines1