A Chester homeless charity will provide brand new 'Shelterbags' to each person currently sleeping rough in the city.

SHARE has partnered with Sheltersuit UK, to provide a brand-new 'insulated sleeping system' for those who need it, funded entirely through sales from the ShareShop on Pepper Street.

This initiative ensures that those without shelter have emergency protection against the elements.

The Shelterbags will be distributed at SHARE's Homeless Action Centre (SHAC), where people experiencing homelessness can access support for addiction, employment and housing.

While SHAC focuses on long-term solutions, some individuals fall through the gaps in local authority support.

This particularly affects those with no local connection, or people who are waiting for accommodation to come available.

The Shelterbags will be distributed at SHARE's Homeless Action Centre (Image via: Sheltersuit UK)

For them, a Shelterbag offers a vital safety net, providing warmth, comfort, and dignity.

Developed by Sheltersuit UK, the Shelterbag is a portable, waterproof, insulated sleeping system designed for rough sleepers.

It includes a built-in mattress for warmth, a weatherproof outer layer for protection, a built-in hood and storage space for personal belongings.

It is lightweight, with an easy-to-carry design.

While not a long-term solution, it prevents exposure-related illness and provides a stepping stone towards recovery.

Adam Dandy, co-founder and chairman of SHARE, said: "Whilst our primary aim is to help people break free from rough sleeping and homelessness, we cannot ignore the fact that between 20 to 30 people still remain on the streets of Chester each night.

"Shelterbags provide immediate protection for those who have nowhere else to turn."

Ian Sutherland McCook FRSA RIBA RIAS, CEO of Sheltersuit UK, added: "Constant cold, wet, and lack of sleep destroy the immune system and cognitive function, making communication and recovery even harder.

It includes a built-in mattress for warmth and a weatherproof outer layer for protection (Image via: Sheltersuit UK)

"With a Shelterbag, you can sleep warm and dry. Your immune system starts to repair and you can begin to rebuild your life.

"This is more than a sticking plaster, it's a bridge back to society.

"Sheltersuit UK is proud to support SHARE in this vital initiative."

SHARE also operates its 'Sponsor a Bed' appeal.

Working with local hotels to utilise empty rooms at discounted rates, SHARE's 'Sponsor a Bed' appeal allows people to fund hotel stays for people sleeping rough, giving them a break away from the streets.

Donations enable them access to a warm hotel room and time to recover.

You can Sponsor a bed here.

This initiative is made possible by donations and purchases at ShareShop Chester.

To donate, sponsor a bed or support SHARE, visit their website or stop by ShareShop Chester.