26 Sep 2023
A charity fundraiser which encourages volunteers to spend a night on cardboard sleeping under the stars is marking its 30th anniversary this November.
The St Albans Sleepout started in 1993 under the leadership of Reverend Paul Hackwood, then the St Albans Diocese’s social responsibility officer. The idea behind the event was to express solidarity with the homeless during a time when the number of street people had risen drastically due to the economic recession.
The first Sleepout took place at the Cathedral, and over the years the event has raised hundreds of thousands for Hertfordshire homeless charities. Today, many participants come as groups from schools, youth organisations, or as friends or colleagues, with some not even born when the Sleepout began.
This year’s Sleepout is on Friday November 10 and is hosted by Oaklands College and organised by Herts Young Homeless, with Open Door, The Living Room, Emmaus and Centre 33 all welcoming supporters to take part and raise vital funds.
There will be a ‘deck your den’ competition on the night for the best cardboard creations, live music from local artists and a creative workshop hosted by St Albans Arts. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available throughout the night organised by Open Door.
Jonny Whitehead, chief executive of Herts Young Homeless, said: “We are delighted to once again be organising this heart-warming local event. This year the Sleepout is even more poignant for us, as the charity marks its 25th anniversary.
“During this time, we have supported over 26,000 young people across Hertfordshire. It is amazing to see local businesses, youth groups, friends and family come together and help in the fight against youth homelessness.”
“It is an inspiring event to be part of and has a fantastic atmosphere, giving a small insight into what life is like for our young people who have no choice but to rough sleep. If homelessness happens early in life, it can set a pattern for the rest of a young person’s life – with 85% of older homeless people first becoming homeless when they were teenagers.
“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, with all the money raised helping us to provide our vital services to break the cycle of youth homelessness, so our young people can lead happy, healthy, and successful lives.”
Sarah Chambers, publicity, fundraising and administration co-ordinator for Open Door, added: “Although we want participants to have a good time, complete with live music, charity talks, snacks, hot drinks, and bacon sandwiches, we must remember that this is not the reality for those who are homeless or rough sleeping.
“They face constant fear and uncertainty – not knowing where they will sleep or shower, how they will find food, stay warm or dry, or if their belongings will be safe. While we hope that our participants enjoy themselves, we ask that they take a moment to reflect on the reason behind the event.
“As you lay your head down for the night, think of those who endure this hardship daily. This is why the sponsorship you raise is so vitally important to Open Door and all the charities involved.”
Find out more and sign up at: www.stalbanssleepout.org.uk
