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The team at Standard Bank explains why its team members gave up their home comforts to support this year’s Sleep Out for Sanctuary Trust
IN the depth of November, amid the chill of the night, Charles Molteno, Standard Bank chief executive and Island head for Standard Bank Jersey, spent a night in the open with members of the local community for Sleep Out for Sanctuary Trust, an annual fundraising event which aims to raise awareness and funds for homeless men in Jersey’s community.
The fundraiser, which took place at Pier Road Car Park on Friday 17 November, was not just about enduring the biting cold but about embodying empathy and solidarity with those who grapple with the harsh reality of facing a night without the safety of shelter, especially during the unforgiving winter months.
Standard Bank rallied behind Charles, with many colleagues generously contributing to his fundraising campaign, which raised more than £1,200 for Sanctuary Trust.
Tina Stuchfield, head of people and culture at Standard Bank Offshore, added: “We see Charles’ compassionate leadership style in action every day, but having our leaders extend these qualities into the community is really special, and truly supports the bank’s values from the inside out.”
The event saw participants give up their home comforts for a single night, not just to raise funds for the charity but to stand in solidarity with the 24 men supported across Sanctuary Trust’s two sites.
Charles said: “Participating in Sleep Out for Sanctuary Trust, alongside my colleagues Emily Harrison and Stephen Marett, was an eye-opening experience and a poignant reminder that the comfort of a warm home is a privilege not universally experienced.
“It’s a challenge that reminds us of the perseverance needed by those who face homelessness daily.
“We were not completely removed from basic comforts, with food, drink and entertainment to amplify the fundraising, but being outside highlighted the endurance faced by real people, facing real challenges and reinforced the importance of supporting the Sanctuary Trust’s critical work in providing sanctuary, support and hope for men facing crises in their lives.”
Sanctuary Trust general manager Sarah Tumelty added: “Participating in the Sleep Out event is a testament to the commitment made by those who understand the importance of supporting our cause.
“This fundraising challenge isn’t just about spending a night without the comforts of home; it’s a demonstration of our local community committing to understand the diversity of our Island and show solidarity and support for those who our charity supports.
“On behalf of the charity, I’d like to extend my gratitude to everyone who took part and kindly donated towards the cause. The funds raised will take us one step closer to putting an end to homelessness in Jersey.”
The Sanctuary Trust, formerly known as Caring Hands, has been an instrumental force since its inception in 2011. Created by a group of concerned parishioners and committed Christians in St Brelade, its aim was to provide a sanctuary for men encountering significant crises, which expanded beyond the scope of conventional homelessness support. To this day, the trust continues to be supported by the churches of St Brelade and generous benefactors who recognise the necessity for such a service.
The trust’s work is not solely centred on providing shelter either; it extends to offering a holistic support system for men dealing with a spectrum of challenges.
From homelessness and economic hardships to mental-health issues and addiction problems, Sanctuary Trust ensures that these individuals receive counselling, rehabilitation, employment assistance and aid in transitioning back to independent living.
Charles concluded: “Standard Bank commends the tireless efforts of Sanctuary Trust and the resilience of the individuals they support. The Sleep Out event reminded myself, my fellow participants and onlookers that small acts of solidarity can create significant change.
“It is an invitation for everyone to continue supporting initiatives like Sanctuary Trust, fostering a community where everyone has the chance for a secure and hopeful future.”
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To find out more about Sanctuary Trust and the charity’s services, visit sanctuarytrust.org.je.
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To find out more about Standard Bank and view their latest vacancies, visit international.standardbank.com/about-us.
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Standard Bank Jersey Ltd is licensed by the Jersey Financial Services Commission with registered offices at Standard Bank House, 47-49 La Motte Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 4SZ. Registered in Jersey no 12999.
