Business leaders, community champions, and local influencers braved the cold overnight at the Balmoral Stadium, standing in solidarity with those facing hardship across the north-east.

The funds raised will be shared between Aberdeen Cyrenians, Aberdeen Foyer, CEO Sleepout UK, and the Cove Rangers Community Foundation, helping to provide life-changing support and services to those most in need.

Neil McCulloch, chief executive officer of Spirit Energy, said: “I decided to take part in the Aberdeen CEO Sleepout because I believe homelessness is a growing yet avoidable issue. The most powerful part of the evening was the fireside chat and the discussions led by Aberdeen Cyrenians and Aberdeen Foyer, which really opened my eyes to the scale and depth of the problem. I had underestimated the extent of the issue, and the event has fundamentally shifted my perception of poverty and homelessness.”

Gillian King, strategic growth director of Three60 Energy, added: “When I was asked to take part in the Aberdeen CEO Sleepout, it felt like a meaningful way to support local charities; and a fun way to give something back. The most impactful part of the night was hearing directly about the growing issue of homelessness in our communities. There was a real sense of camaraderie among participants, despite the cold, wind, and rain making sleep nearly impossible! The experience opened my eyes to how hidden homelessness can be, even within our own organisations. I left committed to starting conversations and signposting support for anyone who may be struggling.”

“This event was about more than just raising money, it was about raising awareness and showing that our business community cares deeply about the people of Aberdeen,” said Donna Hutchison, CEO of Aberdeen Cyrenians. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, donated, and supported this powerful night of action.”

The event brought together leaders from across sectors to experience just a fraction of what it means to sleep without shelter and to commit to being part of the solution.

Henrietta MacEwen, CEO Sleepout Partnerships Specialist, commented: “We could not be more thrilled with how the business community in Aberdeen came out in force to support the first ever CEO Sleepout Aberdeen. The funds raised will contribute towards the charities being able to assist their clients and helping to tackle homelessness across Aberdeen.”