We’re absolutely thrilled to announce that October 2023 will see the return of Simon’s Big Sleep Out.
Despite the cold weather last year, we saw the best turn out so far for this event, and our amazing participants raised over £30,000 for Simon on the Streets in the process. This year, as our flagship event, we hope to make Simon’s Big Sleep Out bigger and better than ever. We want to invite you to spend the evening with us in Leeds city centre for a night full of comradery and entertainment, as we raise vital funds for those facing homelessness. This truly is an event not to be missed.
Where: Leeds Civic Hall, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 1UR
When: Thursday 19th October 2023
Link to book: https://www.trybooking.com/uk/events/landing/45019
Why do we do the big sleep out?
We never tire of wanting to make something absolutely clear; we’re not for a moment suggesting that taking part in the Sleep Out is a true reflection of the conditions faced by those experiencing homelessness. But the reason we do the Sleep Out is to shine a light on how difficult life on the streets is for the people we support. This is a small glimpse into what a night without shelter can feel like. For the people we support, this is something they experience every single day and night.
This is an event to raise awareness, bring the local community together and ultimately, raise funds to help our service users break the cycle of homelessness. Simon’s Big Sleep Out has always been a shining example of what a community can do when we rally together for a good cause. We really hope you’ll join us.
The big focus for the big sleep out
Every year, we try to bring attention to certain aspects of the homeless experience. This year’s focus has been heavily inspired by our involvement in Light Night Leeds, where we’ll be stationed at the David Oluwale Bridge.
David was a British Nigerian who drowned in the River Aire after facing institutional prejudice for both his race and because he was homeless. We’re honoured to be collaborating with the David Oluwale Memorial Association, and we hope to bring new attention to David’s memory and his story - and to ensure that we work together to prevent anything like this ever happening again in the future.
That’s why in this year’s campaign, we’ll be breaking down stigma and stereotypes in the conversations we have about homelessness, whether that stigma is around mental health, disability, race or gender.
Homelessness doesn’t discriminate, and neither do we.
How do I get involved?
We’d love to be able to count on your support for Simon’s Big Sleep Out. Entry is just £25 + booking fee. To support our vital work, we also ask participants to try to raise at least £100 in sponsorship, with all funding going directly to Simon on the Streets.
You can take part by yourself, or why not gather a group of family friends and colleagues? Our team will be there to welcome you throughout the evening.
Are you ready? Book now.