The Big Bolton Sleepout makes you appreciate everything you’ve got and how vital it is to support the homeless, young, old and in between, writes Chloe Wilson

I feel a sense of pride writing this experience piece knowing I slept outside overnight in the pouring rain and cold temperatures -  but I also feel really sad because it really signified how homeless people must struggle due to weather conditions and so many other factors.

Throughout the night we were lay on a very noisy road, with constant cars and trucks going past.

READ MORE: People brave the rain and cold, including our reporter, to sleep on the streets

I had many layers on- three tops and three pairs of trousers and was warm if I stayed huddled but it got colder and colder as time went on and I slept a total of 40 minutes.

It was really uncomfortable throughout the night on the hard floor even though we had cardboard, a ground sheet, a quilted blanket, sleeping bags and plastic covering, yet we still struggled - it is hard to think how homeless people deal with the emotions I felt.

At the start of the night I thought it would be okay because I was warm and cosy but then it rained and the wind picked up and all I could think about was how homeless people have to encounter these conditions on a daily basis with probably much less clothing and cover.

READ MORE: Youth homelessness charity supports hundreds of vulnerable people each year

It just really does show you how homeless people suffer and how much they need our support.

Although it was a tough experience, I recommend people taking part next year to raise funds for the charity at the same time as experiencing what homeless people encounter because it really does open your eyes to the struggles they face and the immense support they need.

The Big Bolton Sleepout shines a light on youth homelessness each year, do you think you could do it?