A Charity Gala Dinner hosted by Framework this World Homeless Day will raise funds to turn a derelict Nottingham lace factory into supported living accommodation for rough sleepers.
The event will take place on 10 October at the Nottingham Belfry Hotel with the region’s business community urged to get behind the charity’s fundraising dinner. Tickets for tables and sponsorship packages are available providing a special opportunity for companies to make a meaningful investment into their local community.
The Gala Dinner is aiming to raise £35,000 to plug the funding gap for one of Framework’s latest supported housing developments set to open Spring 2026.
Lee House will become home to some of the most vulnerable men in Nottingham offering 20 self-contained one bedroom flats along with round the clock support to help them move towards a better future.
Claire Eden, head of fundraising and communications, Framework said: “Many men who become homeless have faced a lifetime of disadvantage. They often fall through the cracks of a support system that isn’t designed to catch them, especially if they are single and without children.
“Shame and stigma often contribute to men suffering in silence. Many struggle alone. Without safe spaces or support, their situation becomes critical. By the time they access our services, most men have been rough sleeping for months, sometimes years. They are entrenched in the lifestyle and carry an enormous backlog of trauma.
“With the proper housing and support, men can and do recover from homelessness. We want to provide a home where they can find stability, receive wrap-around support for their mental health needs and substance use issues, and find their confidence again.”
The Gala Dinner will be hosted by Mark Dennison, well-known for his work at BBC Radio Nottingham, Notts TV and on the tannoy at Nottingham Forest and Trent Bridge.
It will be an opportunity to celebrate the progress and achievements made to tackle homelessness across the East Midlands thanks to the support the charity receives from the business community including the event sponsors reflecting both long-standing relationships and new partnerships.
Allan Joyce Architects, supporting Framework since 2001, said: “We are extremely proud of our longstanding relationship with Framework, having worked with them since their creation. Together, we have worked to create new and refurbished spaces that provide much-needed accommodation and support services for vulnerable people.
“We have witnessed the continual determination of their staff to meet and overcome the challenges faced by homeless people across Nottingham and the East Midlands. Their work to assist those most in need of housing and support has changed countless lives, and to have been part of that journey has been a privilege.”
Caroline Pearson, director, Actons Solicitors, Framework supporters since 2007, said: “It’s an honour to play our part in what will be a fantastic event. By working closely with Framework we see the incredible work they do across the region, as well as the issues they face in maintaining their services.
“We hope that businesses and other supporters will come together on 10th October to support Framework and specifically the work of Lee House in housing some of the most vulnerable men in Nottingham who are at risk of homelessness.”
Vegetology CEO Chris Smith said: “Framework is an amazing charity making a real and lasting difference to people affected by homelessness. It provides essential support, and its approach helps to challenge the stigma that surrounds homelessness. We fully back Framework’s mission to end homelessness and we hope this event can help to raise awareness of its vital work, and raise funds to support its many services.”
Gratton Construction, a new corporate partner in 2025, is supporting the Gala through a bespoke raffle package. Kirsty Howard, director of operations, said: “The work Framework does to support people facing homelessness and complex challenges is truly inspiring. At Gratton, we’re honoured to contribute to something that brings real hope and lasting change to people’s lives.”
A short film to mark the launch of Framework’s Winter Appeal will be shown, along with fine dining, live entertainment and more fundraising activities including the chance to win some exclusive prizes and a silent auction with a signed Forest shirt from their record-breaking 24/25 season.
