BBC Homes Under the Hammer star Martin Roberts has appealed to the public for support after he spent time sleeping rough in Bristol. In a bid to tackle homelessness and highlight the struggle so many people face up and down the country, the 61-year-old presenter decided to sleep rough in the city.
The BBC star was raising funds for the charity The Billy Chip and shared his experience to his 53,200 online followers, reports Nottinghamshire Live. On social media, he said: “Tonight’s the night I’m sleeping rough to raise awareness of the homeless and the charity. f you can help me reach my £1000 target please donate at http://ceosleepout.enthuse.com/pf/martin-roberts and if you can stay up I’ll need words to warm me.”
In a video, Martin stated: “So tonight I’m going to spend a fairly uncomfortable few hours experiencing sleeping rough. I’ve got a sleeping bag and all other sorts of bits and pieces to try and make it slightly better.
“But at the end of the day, I know how hard this is going to be. It’s freezing cold. It’s November. It’s terrible.”
He ended by empathizing with those who have no choice in the matter, noting: “But it’s all to raise awareness for the homeless. I get the choice every once and a while but there are people that don’t have that choice.”
Martin’s recent social media update has drawn an outpour of solidarity from his online base. One follower expressed: “You are a [star]. Wish I was in the UK to bring you a hot toddy. Thinking of you and sending love instead. And yes, I’ll be donating xx.”
Another person said: “Good luck Martin!”. Praise also came from another quarter with a user who said: “People need people, well done, I hope you have a decent evening.”
Another supporter added: “Well done Martin, I’ve just donated! It’s a great cause and I believe in you!”.
Earlier on, Martin had opened up about his reasons for participating in the CEO SleepOut Bristol 2024 event. He shared a touching message: “I’m joining a group of people from across Bristol for a night experiencing first hand what its like to spend overnight, homeless on the streets.”
Making a plea for support, he said: “I’m trying to raise awareness and funds for people facing adverse poverty and homelessness in the Bristol area. Last time I did this I caught pneumonia, but it’s such an important cause I’m doing it again.”
He continued: “And I have the choice to stay for just one night. Others aren’t so fortunate. So sponsor me for as much as you can. Every penny makes difference. And Thank You in advance for your kindness, your generosity, and your commitment to making the world a better place through compassion.”
The CEO Sleepout organises events where CEOs and business owners decide to sleep rough to fight homelessness. Each participant is encouraged to raise or donate £1,000, which goes directly to supporting charities that combat homelessness.