A CHARITY is urging families to give up their bed for the night as dozens of people prepare to sleep rough in Glasgow.

Around 100 volunteers will sleep under the stars at City Chambers tonight to raise money and awareness of the work of homelessness charity, the Bethany Christian Trust.

And they hope families across the country will hold their own sleepout to raise funds for the cause.

Chris Gordon, of the trust, said residents could sleep in their living room or garden and donate to the charity, which works with vulnerable people.

He said: "We'd love to see everyone leaving their bed for the night and reflecting on what it's like for homeless people.

"You don't even have to sleep outside - people could gather in their living rooms or sleep in their gardens in tents safely."

Dozens of Glasgow City Council workers - as well as two councillors - are taking part in the Chambers sleep-out, in the quadrangle, from 10pm.

Hot food and drink will be provided by the Salvation Army.

Mr Gordon said: "We want people to reflect on what it's like to be homeless.

"Even though we're only sleeping out for one night it gives people an idea of what it's like."

Last year the trust raised £56,000 across Scotland

Mr Gordon added: "I will be pointing out that the biggest reason for people becoming homeless is family breakdown. It's breakdown of relationships.

"Homelessness can happen to anyone."

Councillor John Letford, SNP councillor for the Kelvin ward will be joining his colleague Councillor Franny Scally for the sleep out.

Mr Letford said: "I'm only sleeping out for one night, It's not going to solve homelessness in Scotland but I'm one of the lucky ones who can go home to a flat. It's about showing that the way people are having to live in these austere times is still a problem.

"I'm doing it to remind people that there are a lot of people who are living in difficult situations and don't have houses. For me personally having a secure house is the basis for everything, from that all else falls into place.

"This is the first time I've done it, but in my own ward there are a lot of people who are looking for better housing solutions and that's part of the reason I wanted to get involved."

Donate £3 by texting Home SO to 70300. People can also use #bethanysleepout on Twitter.