A team from Lester Aldridge took part in YMCA Bournemouth’s Big Sleep Easy 2025 on Saturday 18 October, raising an incredible £9,291 to support individuals experiencing homelessness in Dorset.
Held in partnership with Diverse Abilities at their base near Bournemouth Airport, the event saw participants sleeping rough in cardboard shelters for one night to raise awareness of the challenges faced by those without a safe place to call home. The initiative supports YMCA Bournemouth’s vital work in providing emergency accommodation, support services, and long-term housing solutions for vulnerable people across the region.
Lester Aldridge was proud to support the event as YMCA Bournemouth’s flagship event partner with a team of 26 employees and partners. Since taking part in the first event in 2018, the firm has raised over £36,000 for YMCA Bournemouth, with more than 70 team members participating over the years.
Mark Benham, Partner and Head of the Real Estate Group at Lester Aldridge, commented:
“For the third year in a row, the number of people sleeping on the streets of England and Wales has increased, with a 20% rise in the last year. YMCA Bournemouth makes a huge difference to our community, and Lester Aldridge is proud to support and sponsor this event, which brings together local businesses who sleep rough for one night only to raise money and awareness for those experiencing homelessness.”
This year’s Big Sleep Easy was particularly special, marking the final event for a while and celebrating the semi-retirement of Sheena Dayman, YMCA Bournemouth’s Community Fundraiser. The event was co-hosted with Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, with funds raised also supporting an Information Hub for people with disabilities at risk of homelessness.
Lester Aldridge’s continued involvement in the Big Sleep Easy reflects the firm’s commitment to supporting local causes and making a meaningful impact in the community.
To support the team and the life-changing work of YMCA Bournemouth, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/lesteraldridgebigsleep25