Will you sleep outside so others don’t have to?

Posted 13th January 2021

Help those who sleep on the streets by spending one night under the stars

The Northampton Hope Centre is calling on people to sign up for its Big SleepOut event to understand the realities of homelessness as well as helping to raise vital funds to support those who are living in poverty (including those who are homeless, disadvantaged or vulnerable). 

2021’s Big SleepOut takes place on Friday 29th January at Delapré Abbey. Participants will be asked to spent the night outside (in a covid-secure environment) with just a sleeping bag, blankets, cardboard and plastic sheeting – no tents!

Sara Homer, CEO of Brackmills Business Improvement District has joined in with the event for the past five years and is encouraging others to get involved, raise money and gain from the experience.  

Sara commented, “For me it is a great way of raising money and giving back to the men, women and children who unfortunately find themselves sleeping on the streets of Northampton through no fault of their own.

“I have been involved with the Hope Centre for many years now and the Big SleepOut has become, for me, an annual event. Through wind, rain, sleet, and snow we are out there. This helps you have a better understanding of what these people endure whilst living rough.

“One of the best things about taking part is the brilliant camaraderie and respect for and from the people around you. After having taken part, you look at people on the streets through a different set of eyes; so much admiration and passion for the predicament that they find themselves in.

Sara concluded, “I would urge as many people as possible to please join Hope’s Big SleepOut 2021 and help raise much needed funds for the Hope Centre.”

Hope’s events and community fundraiser, Tanya Haji-Miller, said: “The night of our Big SleepOut is always amazing as so many likeminded people come together to experience one night of what it’s like to be homeless; it’s real eye opener.

“The weather can always be a bit temperamental but we want our participants to take themselves out of their comfort zones and into someone else’s shoes.

“It will be cold and it will be uncomfortable but it’s just for one night. So, bring along your friends and family and help each other to raise vital funds so we can continue to help those who are living in poverty in our community.” 

The event officially takes place from 7pm to 7am but you will be assigned an arrival time so we can ensure that the event and registration point are socially distanced.

Due to covid-19 restrictions, only 200 people will be allowed into the event this year. Tickets are just £10 each so make sure you grab yours quickly before they all sell out!

If you fancy taking on the challenge, sign up here: hopecentrebigsleepout2021.eventbrite.co.uk or get in touch for more information: fundraising@northamptonhopecentre.org.uk