MEMBERS of an advice charity are encouraging others to get involved in an awareness raising event.

Citizens Advice Flintshire (CAF) announced last week that in response to the increasing demand for support with Universal Credit (UC) it is organising a sponsored sleep-out.

The event will take place at the charity's offices in Connah's Quay on March 23.

Treasurer and trustee Lucie Mulvaney told the Leader: "There are so many people who have had problems with Universal Credit and have become homeless or have no money and get into debt.

"They have to use food banks more and we really need to help them."

CAF is a registered Flintshire charity helping Flintshire residents.

Clare Madders, also of CAF, said: "This project is about people being able to experience a little bit of the hardship to raise awareness of the issues our clients are going through."

Tom Roynon of Buckley completed his first day as a volunteer at CAF on Wednesday.

Speaking of why he is supporting the sleep-out, he told the Leader: "I think it is a disgrace that the situation is so dire - we have to band together because we can't just wait for someone to come and give us a handout."

The team aims to raise £20,000 with the challenge, which will be used to help prevent debt, avoid evictions and the threat of homelessness brought about by Universal Credit for Flintshire residents.

Mandy Plant - marketing, communications and fundraising manager at CAF, said: "The stress and anxiety this benefit is causing to people trying to claim UC is alarming.

"We know that often people are sometimes one pay cheque away from disaster and too often as soon as people lose their employment, or become ill, or whatever the reason they are unable to work, things deteriorate too quickly and often this directly affects peoples mental well-being."

Salli Edwards, CEO at CAF, added: "I have worked for Citizens Advice Flintshire for a long time.

"I have seen the positive difference our staff and volunteers can make to people's lives.

"A combination of austerity and Universal Credit has led to real poverty in our communities and I will sleep out to try and raise money so that we can help more people facing poverty and destitution. Any donation would be much appreciated."

Mrs Mulvaney added that CAF is inviting businesses to register teams for the sleep-out, as well as families. Participants are also welcome to bring their dogs.

There will also be food, entertainment and talks on the night.

To find out more or to sign up to the event, visit: flintshirecab.org.uk/

Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/MCFTeam