St Basils sleepout doubles number of sign-ups  

St Basils, a leading homelessness charity in the West Midlands, is gearing up for its annual Big Sleepout on Friday, 29 November at Millennium Point, Birmingham.

Double the number of people have signed up compared to this time last year - a sign that communities are coming together to make a difference.

Participants will ‘sleep rough’ for one night, so a young person doesn’t have to.

The event kicks off at 6pm with a unique challenge – participants are asked to build their shelter for the night using only cardboard boxes and materials they bring along.

There’s also a prize for the most imaginative structure.

For every £9 raised, St Basils can provide a safe night of accommodation for a young person in need.

More than 600 young people are currently housed each night.

Participants can enjoy performances by an Indian Drum & Dance group, festive music from the West Midlands Fire Service Brass Band, and a hearty vegan curry.

There will also be hot drinks, cakes, and a special presentation inside Millennium Point, highlighting the positive impacts the support has made on young lives.

Breakfast will also be provided with toast and hot drinks to start the day.

Over 500 participants from local businesses, community groups, schools, and families are expected to take part in this flagship fundraiser.

By signing up, participants will receive free registration and full support in their fundraising efforts, including an automatic fundraising page to share with friends, family, and colleagues.

Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising and communications at St Basils, said: "The cost-of-living crisis is hitting young people hard, and we’re seeing more and more of them needing our help, in fact we have seen a 22 per cent increase year on year of young people needing our support.

“The Big Sleepout is a way for the community to come together, raise vital funds, and stand in solidarity with those who are struggling.

“It’s inspiring to see double the number of participants compared to last year – it shows just how much people care and want to make a difference."

Registrations for the Big Sleepout 2024 are now open. Click here to register.