The Big Sleep is back for 2021 with a difference.
This year, Alabaré’s flagship event will be different. On Friday, March 5, the Alabaré team wants fans to hold their own BIG Sleep, in fun, safe and interesting places to help end homelessness.
The national charity with roots in Salisbury has held the sleep-in at Salisbury Cathedral for the past 13 years, and hundreds of people slept together for the night to raise funds and awareness of homelessness. In 2021, the team hopes supporters will ‘sleep out’ at home, work or school, and join an online community of fellow Big Sleepers.
Laura Knight, Community Fundraiser for Alabaré, said: “We love seeing people at our Big Sleep and grateful for the passion they have to make a difference to the lives of those who are homeless.
“Covid regulations prevent us holding our annual event, but following the success our first ‘Big Sleep at Home’ event this year, we are inviting people to swap their comfy bed for a sleeping bag for one night. To make it more fun, grab a blanket and build a den in your lounge, sleep in the bath, or truly brave the elements and sleep under the stars?
“When so many activities are on hold, it is a fun way to spend an evening and raise funds and awareness for our work with vulnerable people who desperately need our support.” Schools, community groups, churches and businesses could all get involved.
“Join in no matter where you are. We’re planning some entertainment and some reflections to tune into on the night, and we’d love you to share pictures so we can see some very unusual sleeping places. It’s thought provoking for any of us to give up our bed for the night and sleep in an uncomfortable place, and remember how lucky we are that we’re only doing it for one night. Together we can raise awareness and funds to help end the crisis of homelessness for good.”
Barney Norris will read a bedtime story. Survival den building tricks and tips with ex SAS Major Ken Hames, a virtual fun quiz with prizes, and Q&A with CEO Andrew Lord MBE.
During eight months this year, Alabaré has provided homes and support for more than 1,075 people in the South West and Wales. Latest statistics show 778 deaths last year from homelessness, a 7.2% increase and the highest on record since records began in 2013. With increased unemployment and the end of rental eviction protection, the figures are likely to rise, according to www.ons.gov.uk
To take part in The Big Sleep at Home go to www.alabare.co.uk/event/big-sleep-at-home