Police officers endured an uncomfortable night sleeping rough in aid of homeless veterans.
Together with Fire Service Colleagues they were taking part in the Great Tommy Sleep Out – a national fundraising challenge to support veterans experiencing homeless.
The Nottingham event , one of dozens held across the country in the month of March, was organised by Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue service and was held around the Parade Square at joint Headquarters on Monday night.
PCSO Steve Timperley, an Army veteran and chair of Nottinghamshire Police’s Armed Forces Network, was one of around a dozen participants on the night.
He explained:
“As a members of the wider defence community in Nottinghamshire, I think it is vital that we do not forget those less fortunate than ourselves who have also served Crown.
“In my experience, veterans are proud individuals who seldom ask for help, even when falling on harder times. That’s why it’s so important for us to support those individuals in whatever way we can.
“Monday night was a grounding and humbling experience, and a shared opportunity for reflection with colleagues and other veterans from the Nottinghamshire Fire Service.”
PC Luke Bettridge a veteran from Mansfield Police Station said:
“As ever it is always an honour to support any endeavour that draws important attention to veterans and especially the troops that are less fortunate than ourselves.”
“As night fell the temperature dropped and for me it was a stark reminder of just how cold it can get when faced by the elements.”
Richard Howell a veteran and a police staff member said:
“It is important to remember that although countless veterans in the UK are safe in their day-to-day lives, there are still many others that are sleeping rough, at risk and are struggling.”
“For me like others, Monday night was important to highlight the plight of homeless veterans. And although I found the evening chilly, being a seasoned bushcraft enthusiast did help in my preparation for this challenge.”
