Raising Awareness & Funds to Donate 300 Sleeping Coats to Rough Sleepers Across the UK this winter. As part of the fundraiser - John is climbing Kilimanjaro!

At 65, John isn’t slowing down - he’s gearing up to climb Mount Kilimanjaro this October.

Why? To raise awareness about rough sleeping in the UK and to raise funds so we can make and donate more warm, weatherproof sleeping coats to those who need them most.

The Mission

John founded The Ootsider, a small social enterprise in Scotland, to do something simple yet powerful:

Keep people warm. Give them dignity. Show them they matter.

We hand-make high-quality changing robes and sleeping coats right here in Scotland. Every sale helps fund the production of sleeping coats that are donated, free of charge, to people experiencing rough sleeping.

But we want to do more. That’s why John is taking our mission to new heights - quite literally.

Why Kilimanjaro?

This isn’t just about climbing a mountain - it’s about climbing the mountain that is homelessness.

John’s journey to Kilimanjaro is a symbol of what people can achieve with strength, support, and belief - the same things many rough sleepers go without every day.

How You Can Help

Your donation will help us:

• Fund materials and production of donated sleeping coats

• Reach more rough sleepers across the UK

• Raise vital awareness around homelessness and human dignity

‍ John’s Journey

Training at 65 isn’t easy - but John is committed.

He’s already started: daily walks, gym sessions, and building the stamina he’ll need to reach the summit. Every step he takes is for those who don’t have the luxury of a safe place to sleep tonight.

Be Part of the Climb

• Donate what you can - every pound makes a difference

• Share this page with your network

• Follow John’s progress at @the_ootsider ( Instagram) and The Ootsider (Facebook)

This climb isn’t just about reaching the top. It’s about lifting others along the way.

Let’s make this journey count - together.

- The Ootsider Team