Standing together to tackle homelessness in Milton Keynes

On 13 November, I joined 54 other business and community leaders at Stadium MK for the 2025 CEO Sleepout. It was powerful, emotional and a real wake-up call. Nights like this remind me exactly why this work matters.

We raised £48,500, which is incredible. We started with a target of £30,000 and smashed it. That kind of generosity says everything about the people who took part and everyone who backed them.

This wasn’t my first sleepout, but it hits me every time. One night outside will never compare to what people experiencing homelessness go through, but it does strip things back. You feel the cold. You feel the uncertainty. And you realise very quickly how easy it is to take warmth, safety and privacy for granted.

And the truth is, too many people in Milton Keynes don’t have those basics.

The money raised will now go straight to The Shelter MK, YMCA Milton Keynes, Unity MK, MK Dons Community Trust and CEO Sleepout UK. These charities are on the frontline every day. They offer somewhere safe to stay, hot meals, warm clothing, outreach, guidance and a path towards stability. Real help for real people, when they need it most.

The atmosphere on the night was full of energy and purpose. MK Dons Community Trust did an amazing job hosting, and there was a real sense that everyone was there for something bigger than themselves. It wasn’t just a fundraiser. It was a collective statement that homelessness in our city cannot go ignored.

Bianca Robinson, CEO of CEO Sleepout UK, said something that stuck with me. That the night isn’t only about raising money. It’s about challenging the stigma, building empathy and reminding us that none of us are immune to sudden change. She’s right. It could happen to any one of us.

I’ve since stepped down from my broader Ambassador role with CEO Sleepout MK, and taking part in this event just before doing so felt especially meaningful. It was a powerful way to close that chapter and to stand with the people and organisations tackling homelessness every day.

What happens next
In the coming weeks, the funds will be delivered to the charities and put straight into action: safe places to sleep, warm food, clothing, support and a chance to get back on track. No delays. No faff. Just help where it’s needed.

Thank you to everyone who showed up. Whether you slept out, donated or simply shared the message, you made a huge difference.

I’m proud that Milton Keynes is a city that shows up. And on 13 November, it really did.

Amanda