Jonathan Handford joins 10th Annual Sleep Out to raise funds for The Fine & Country Foundation

Jonathan Handford, Interim Managing Director of Fine & Country, is marking the 10th anniversary of a tradition close to his heart by participating in a Sleep Out this February. Through the events, Handford aims to raise vital funds through The Fine & Country Foundation, to support local charities focused on homelessness and vulnerable communities.

Reflecting on a journey that began a decade ago, Handford shared: "Ten years ago, I spent a night sleeping rough on the streets of Leamington Spa. At 2 a.m., the police rightly asked us to move along from the bandstand - we hadn’t planned it officially or done a risk assessment. But that night marked the start of something incredible.”

What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into an annual tradition, with participants coming together to raise awareness and funds for homelessness for the past decade. At a similar time, the Fine & Country Foundation was born. Over the last ten years, The Foundation has raised over £1,000,000, with the money raised going to support local charities through grants.

To celebrate this milestone 10th Anniversary, Handford is doubling his commitment by participating in another Sleep Out this year, on the 1st of February - benefiting Helping Hands Community Project and The Esther Project, organisations making a tangible impact in the community.

Helping Hands Community Project supports individuals facing homelessness, mental health challenges, domestic abuse, poverty, addiction, and isolation. Their programs help people rebuild their confidence and lead fulfilling lives. The Esther Project, founded by Lianne Kirkman, provides safe accommodation and support for women in crisis.

"The reason I keep coming back?" Handford explained, "It’s the overwhelming generosity of others and seeing lives transformed. I’ve met people who’ve overcome addiction, found stability, built careers, and most importantly, now have homes and families. Everyone deserves a place to call home. Let’s make it happen. Every penny counts."

The 10th Annual Big Sleep Out will take place at the All Saints Parish Church in Leamington Spa. Braving the cold, participants will experience what it’s like to spend a night on the streets, sleeping in cardboard boxes and waterproof sheets. Soup kitchen-style food will be served in the evening, followed by talks from a variety of speakers. The event concludes with a Dawn Walk around Leamington, finishing at Helping Hands offices on Althorpe Street for breakfast.

Handford invites supporters to join the Sleep Out or donate to the cause. Each contribution helps provide vital resources and support to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

To donate visit Jonathan Handford’s Just Giving Sleep Out page. 

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