MACS vision is an end to youth homelessness in Northern Ireland.

MACS is a youth-specific charity, focusing our services on ages 18-25. Early intervention is key to helping young people prevent and break the cycle of homelessness and the associated risks.

At MACS we concentrate on intensive longer term support- typically each person receives up to 2 years of services. We see first hand how with the right support this age group can and do find a place to call home and build brighter futures. We need your help to do this.

Together, we can end youth homelessness.

MACS are tackling homelessness locally by providing a home and/or support to almost 700 young people across NI each year.

Our support is holistic , wrap around care tailored to each individual's needs over a period of time that allows a young person time to develop the capacity and resilience to move on.

We offer housing; support with education, health and wellbeing; education, training and careers, social participation in the community and ensure young people have life skills such as shopping, cooking, finance and budgeting, so they can leave MACS more equipped and empowered to achieve their personal goals and build brighter futures.

In today's climate of funding cuts, housing crisis and rising costs of living fundraising has become vital to MACS and our young people.

If you can't make it on the night, why not plan your own Sleep Out. Email [email protected] for tips to get started.

Every single person taking part in Sleep Out will make a difference to  young lives in Northern Ireland.

Thank you for making a difference!

FAQS

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Access to Banana Block is via the entrance on Newtownards Road. Parking is not permitted on the cobblestones at Portview but there is free on-street parking on Newtownards Road between 6pm until 8am. Connswater shopping centre is also a short walk away.

Who can take part?

You can take part as an individual or part of a group. If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to take part in this challenging event, please consult with your GP.

Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. MACS do not accept any duty or liability for young participants. Only 3 children per adult will be allowed to take part. Every participant will be asked to sign a photo consent and release form on the night. Adults must sign this on under-18s behalf but please discuss this in advance with your children and email [email protected] early if they/you do NOT want their image to be captured or published.

That's the boring stuff done, we look forward to seeing you there.

What can I bring into the event?

A sleeping bag, a pillow and a roll out mat to lie on. Please consider bringing cardboard to put under your mat- that extra insulation helps.

Please dress warm. We advise you double up on socks and gloves. November is c-c-c-c-old! No glass bottles. Light snacks and breakfast will be provided and is covered by your registration fee. Alcohol is not permitted on site. Our advice is to have a proper meal before arrival. Entertainment will be provided from 7pm to 11pm when we sleep ( or try to sleep).

Noise restriction

Sleep Out is a social event but there is a strict noise policy after 11pm. Out of consideration for other participants, we ask everyone to be quiet after 11pm. Anyone causing disruption may be asked to leave Banana Block.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions

Please contact us with all event queries at [email protected] and Carla with media enquiries [email protected]