Leicester Charity Announces The Big Sleep 2026 to Support Homeless Community
The Bridge Homelessness to Hope, a dedicated Leicester homeless charity, is set to host its flagship fundraising event, The Big Sleep 2026. This annual initiative will take place overnight from 8pm on Tuesday, March 17, to 8am the following morning at the University of Leicester Centenary Square.
Raising Awareness and Funds Through Outdoor Sleeping
Participants are encouraged to sleep outside for one night to generate crucial funds and highlight the severe challenges faced by the city's homeless and rough sleepers. All proceeds from The Big Sleep will directly support The Bridge's essential services, including breakfast and lunch provisions, access to hot showers, clothing, toiletries, and washing and drying facilities.
Additionally, the funds will sustain three Case Workers who assist guests with diverse needs such as housing and benefit advice, connections to GP or dental services, and access to mental health and wellbeing support.
Expanded Participation Options for 2026
This year, The Bridge Homelessness to Hope is introducing a flexible participation model. Individuals can join The Big Sleep 2026 by sleeping outside in their own back gardens between March 16 and 22, 2026. Supporters can engage as solo participants or form teams with friends, family, and colleagues. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those who wish to back individuals already registered for the event.
Community and Leadership Perspectives
Pablo Cortés, a volunteer and Professor of Law/Chair in Civil Justice at the University of Leicester, shared his motivation: "I volunteer at The Bridge because I believe a community is judged by how it treats those who are struggling the most. Many guests face hunger, cold, isolation, and complex physical and mental health issues." He emphasized the charity's dignified approach, noting it offers not just basic necessities but also a welcoming space and human recognition.
Cortés added, "The thought of sleeping rough is profoundly unsettling. That is why I am taking part in the Big Sleep this year: to raise awareness and funds in response to the growing challenge of rough sleeping in our area."
David Fawcett, Chief Executive at The Bridge Homelessness to Hope, highlighted the ongoing crisis: "Homelessness remains a significant challenge in Leicester, with high numbers accessing our services last year. The Big Sleep is our flagship fundraising event, crucial for generating funds and raising awareness of the conditions our guests endure." He urged individuals and businesses to participate, sponsor, or donate to support vulnerable guests directly.
Impact and Statistics
Recent data for 2025 reveals the charity's expanding reach. Its Hub services were accessed 19,050 times throughout the year, marking an 83 percent increase since 2022. Success stories include 84 people housed in temporary or permanent accommodation, and 367 guests have seen income improvements since 2020 through the charity's support services.
The Big Sleep 2026 represents a vital community effort to address homelessness in Leicester, combining fundraising with heightened public consciousness to drive meaningful change.
