In lieu of the pandemic, The Big Issue Foundation’s own sleepout has been put on hold until further notice, which is why we are looking forward to being a part of the Big Summer Sleepout (at home) with CEO Sleepout!
Homelessness is a difficult thing to measure because there are so many different types of homelessness. It’s not always rough sleeping, which is what pops into people’s heads when they hear “homeless”. People trapped in temporary accommodation, hostels, and shelters are also homeless. It is estimated that around 227,000 people experienced the worst forms of homelessness – rough sleeping, sleeping in vans and sheds, and stuck in B&Bs – across England, Scotland, and Wales in 2021.
Those taking part in the Big Summer Sleepout will give up their beds for one night to “sleep out” at home, either on the sofa, floor, or somewhere safe outside in order to fundraise for The Big Issue Foundation. Since this sleepout is remote and can be done safely from anywhere at home, the sleepout is 100% family friendly!
“I am particularly excited that The Big Issue Foundation is involved in the Big Summer Sleepout as our very own TBIF Sleepout has always been one of my favourite events. This virtual format is great because not only can our supporters get involved form wherever they are, but their kids can get involved too. We’re happy that we can now involve younger generations in the fight against homelessness and poverty through this event.”
Rhia Docherty, Mass Fundraising Manager at The Big Issue Foundation
Participants can even choose to sleep on their sofa as sofa surfing is a type of homelessness, or alternatively, participants can sleep rough out in their backyard. While sleeping on the ground for a night may be a little cold and uncomfortable, it could help support Big Issue vendors as well as offer insight into what it’s like to be homeless for a night.
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CEO Sleepout brings business leaders together to make a stand against homelessness. To date, they’ve funded over 100 charities on the frontline of homelessness with the money raised at their Sleepout events. For the Big Summer Sleepout, anyone is welcome to participate.
“I am thrilled that the Big Issue Foundation is partnering with us, benefitting from funds raised by big-hearted individuals across the UK as part of the Big Summer Sleepout. We’re excited to bring everyone together via zoom on the night to show off their sleeping pitches, share bedtime stories, and hear from some incredible people who have overcome rough sleeping. We know the Big Issue does an incredible job, giving rough sleepers a vital pathway towards a stable life. Whilst it might be a little uncomfortable sleeping in your backyard, The Big Summer Sleepout on 30 June promises to be an incredible, eye-opening night that unlocks compassion and understanding whilst raising lots of money to help the Big Issue Foundation change people’s lives. All you need is a big heart and a sleeping bag!”
Bianca, CEO of CEO Sleepout
To get involved, all you need to do is sign up and register by filling out a form and selecting The Big Issue Foundation from the drop-down list when asked which charity you are fundraising for. You’ll then be sent a link to start your fundraising – all we ask is that you try to raise at least £100. On the night of the Sleepout, participants can join us at 8pm on a video call and meet other Sleepout participants across the UK. After the event, the funds raised will be used to support Big Issue vendors across the UK!
