More than 130 islanders have already committed to swapping their beds for sleeping bags as part of the Big Skipton Sleep Out, set to take place in just two weeks’ time.
Hosted by Skipton International in partnership with local charity Caritas, the event aims to raise vital awareness and funds for those facing homelessness on the island. The Sleep Out is taking place at the King George V (KGV) on Friday 24 January 2025 from 7pm until 6.30am the following day.
Participants are being sponsored by their family, friends, and work colleagues, and have been asked to aim to raise at least £100 each, through cash, cheque and bank donations, to donate to Caritas. There will also be cash buckets and card machines available on the night to accept further donations.
Funds raised will contribute to the charity’s ambition to raise £1m and source secure land to build an innovative modular housing community, which the funds from the sleep out will go directly towards. The development will provide accommodation for people experiencing homelessness as they get back on their feet, providing them with a sense of community and restoring their dignity.
The event has inspired island-wide support, including the Guernsey Scouts and Guides, who are hosting their own version of The Big Skipton Sleep Out next week, at Rue Maingy. More than 200 children will be taking part to learn about part of the reality of being homeless and raise money for Caritas.
Jane King, leader of the Cubs Guernsey Scout Group, said: “When we heard about the fundraising initiative of The Big Skipton Sleepout, we knew that this would be something that our Scouts would love the challenge of doing. Having contacted the Guides as well, they were keen to join our event which is fantastic. We are very grateful to Skipton who are allowing us to hold our own ‘Scout & Guide Style’ event the week before the public event.
“The awareness of just how many Guernsey residents are homeless is limited, which we have realised when talking to family and friends about why we are taking part. It is going to be a huge challenge, especially at this time of year, but we are hoping that our young people will “be prepared” for whatever weather is thrown at us and will be able to make a valuable contribution to Caritas’ modular housing project.”
Pictured: Julie Todd from Skipton International, and Graham Merfield from Caritas.
Further information about The Big Skipton Sleep Out can be found here.
