For one night only! Swap your bed for a sleeping bag and give a homeless person a chance of a better future.
Returning for its 7th year, the Big Sleep encourages teams and individuals to sleep out in a secured space in St Leonards and experience a little of what it’s like to sleep rough. The event starts at Seaview Project Wellbeing Centre, Hatherley Road at 8pm before moving outside for the mass sponsored sleep out.
Save the date, 3rd of October 2025.
Raising awareness and vital funds for rough sleepers and homeless people locally, you can be part of the solution.
Follow our socials as information on venue, entertainment and plans are revealed.
Rough sleeping won’t go away, today or tomorrow, but with your help we can make a difference!
SLEEP OUTDOORS FOR ONE NIGHT
Is there a minimum amount I need to raise to take part?
We encourage everyone to raise a minimum of £25 before entering. The person to raise the highest fundraising will receive a meal for two in a local restaurant to celebrate. Prizes will be announced on the night.
To set up your linked Just Giving fundraising page visit our campaign here and click on the orange button labelled ‘Start Fundraising’. Follow the instructions to set up your page.
See T&C’s for prizes. Sign up here!
Can I participate as a group?
You can join as an individual or as a group. Maximum of 6 people per team and the team to raise the highest fundraising will receive a meal out at a local restaurant to celebrate.
To set up your linked Just Giving fundraising page visit our campaign here and click on the orange button labelled ‘Start Fundraising’. Follow the instructions to set up your page.
See T&C’s for prizes. Sign up here!
What prizes are available?
Once fundraising targets are reached, you will receive a free Big Sleep T-shirt or free Big Sleep hoodies.
Prizes for the highest individual and team fundraisers on offer. (Please see T&C’s)
Is there an age limit for this event?
The public event is strictly for over 18’s.
However, if you are under 18 and would like to participate in the experience, you can, in a safe, private home space. (Terms and conditions apply.)
We advise participants aged 65 and over to seek medical advice before registering.
Will I be safe?
The idea of the event is to show support and raise awareness of issues facing homelessness but not to attempt to put you in danger. There is no denying the outdoors is an open and exposed place to sleep. The Big Sleep will be a challenge and it’s important to help take responsibility for your own safety. In addition, the area will be securely fenced off and there will be awake marshals throughout the event. First aiders will also be on site.
Weather conditions may prove a challenge as we enter October, so remember to bring a warm sleeping bag, a roll mat or cardboard and any blankets you may have! If rain is forecast we will allow small pop-up tents, remember it will be a tarmacked surface so only weight will keep the tent secure.
How do I register online?
There are many ways to be involved. Please visit the ‘Get Involved‘ page for further information.
What do I need to prepare for the sleep out?
A warm sleeping bag and roll mat or cardboard, these are essential items for staying safe and managing your wellbeing during the challenge. If you do not have a sleeping bag or underlay, Seaview will have a few available on a first come first serve basis.
Please note: Without these items you will not be permitted to sleep out.
Warm, waterproof clothing is also advised.
Terms and conditions
Full terms and conditions are available here.
We’re looking for sponsors for The Big Sleep 2025.
Get in touch if you’d like to become a sponsor and have your company logo featured below and find out additional benefits we can offer business sponsors!