Bath-based charity Julian House has announced that its Big Bath Sleep-Out fundraising event will be returning this March, with locals being challenged to sleep outside for one night.
Photo © Julian House
The event is being held on Friday 3rd March in aid of the charity, which supports vulnerable and at-risk individuals.
The Sleep-Out sees hundreds of supporters brave the cold and bed down in Alice Park, raising sponsorship money for Julian House’s work.
Event Organiser Matt Redmore said: “We’re delighted to be returning to Alice Park for our sponsored sleepout this year.
“Our amazing supporters love this event for the camaraderie on the night and the amazing sense of achievement they feel afterward.
“It’s a difficult time for charities with the uncertain economic situation and, despite amazing local support, we’re no exception to that. So it’s more important than ever that people get involved and sleep out for just one night!
“Of course, no-one is under any illusion that spending one cold night in Alice Park could possibly come close to the stark reality of being homeless and sleeping on the streets.
“People taking part in the Big Bath Sleep-Out may be cold and a little wet. However, the next morning people taking part can go home, have a warm bath, a cooked breakfast, chat to family and friends about their experience or just catch up on lost sleep.
“The big difference for people who are forced to sleep rough is that they don’t have that option.”
Last year Julian House provided life-changing support to over 1,600 vulnerable individuals who were experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness across Bath, Bristol, and the South West.
Without the support of a charity like Julian House, the life expectancy of a long-term homeless person is just 44 years. By taking on the sleep-out challenge in March and raising vital funds, anyone can help to change that.
Last year local supporter Andres took part on his own and raised over £500. He’s now encouraging others to take part this year, saying: “Taking part in the sponsored sleepout last year was a brilliant and rewarding experience.
“Even though I was there by myself everyone was really welcoming and encouraging.
“Everyone there felt like they were making a real difference to people experiencing homelessness. Do get involved this year if you can!”
Tickets for the event are free. You can sign up at www.bigbathsleepout.co.uk.
