Radio 1 DJ Joins Barnet Charity Sleep Out
Dean McCullough, who experienced homelessness as a child, is an ambassador for Centrepoint's fundraising event.
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From the archive. This story was written up on 29 July 2026 from reporting first published on 23 January 2026, which is the date shown above. We took up the back catalogue of the local titles we read when this site launched, so the events are older than the page.
Radio 1 presenter and DJ Dean McCullough is set to participate in Centrepoint's 'Sleep Out' event this month. The charity, which supports young people experiencing homelessness, is hosting the event to raise crucial funds and awareness. McCullough, who has spoken openly about his own childhood experiences of not having a fixed address, is an ambassador for Centrepoint.
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McCullough, aged 33, revealed that he did not initially recognise his childhood situation as homelessness, only coming to that understanding through his work with Centrepoint. He described his youth as an "incredibly unstable time" and spoke of the lasting trauma from worrying about being uprooted. He recalled frequently moving between houses, putting belongings in plastic bags, a situation that became normalised for him. Now a presenter on Radio 1's Early Breakfast show and a former contestant on 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here', McCullough expressed pride in his role with Centrepoint, stating his commitment to ensuring young people's voices are heard.
Ahead of the event, McCullough highlighted the disparity between participants' temporary discomfort and the daily reality for those without shelter. "I don’t care how cold it is, I don’t care if I don’t have a blanket because at the end, I will go home to my flat," he said, contrasting this with the situation for many others. He emphasised the need for greater attention to the issue, noting that "too many young people in this country going under the radar."
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Supporting Centrepoint's efforts, Nationwide is offering matched funding throughout February for the 'Sleep Out' fundraiser. The UK's largest building society will contribute an amount equivalent to the funds raised by participants, up to a maximum of £50,000. This initiative is part of Nationwide's 'Fairer Futures' social impact strategy, which has focused on improving accommodation and tenancy access for young people. Colleagues from Nationwide across the UK are also expected to participate in their own 'Sleep Out' events.
Adele Atiyah, a fundraising manager at Centrepoint, clarified that the 'Sleep Out' events are not intended to replicate the dangers of sleeping rough but rather to foster understanding and generate vital funds. "Our focus is on raising understanding and vital funds to ensure young people have access to safe accommodation, support and a real chance to move forward with their lives," Atiyah stated.
Individuals interested in participating in the 'Sleep Out' or learning more can visit Centrepoint's website. The charity provides support for those organising their own events, from venue selection to fundraising.
Questions this report answers
+Who is Dean McCullough and why is he involved?
Dean McCullough is a Radio 1 DJ who experienced homelessness as a child and now supports Centrepoint's 'Sleep Out' fundraiser. His involvement stems from his personal history and a desire to amplify the voices of young people facing similar struggles.
+What does the 'Sleep Out' event aim to achieve?
The 'Sleep Out' event encourages participants to sleep outdoors for one night to raise money and awareness for homeless young people. It aims to foster understanding and generate vital funds for safe accommodation and support services.
+How much funding will Nationwide provide?
Nationwide will match funds raised for the 'Sleep Out' up to £50,000 as part of its 'Fairer Futures' social impact strategy. This means every pound raised by participants will be doubled, up to the maximum amount.
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