Sleepout 2023
The Sleepout 2023 is an opportunity to raise funds for inHope whilst gaining an insight into the experience of people who are rough sleeping. Whilst one night could never fully replicate the horrors faced by people rough sleeping, it does offer an opportunity to understand some of the challenges.
This year, the Sleepout will be raising money for the Wild Goose Day Centre who provide meals for people experiencing homelessness and housing vulnerabilities. For every £3 raised, inHope can provide a nutritious meal to a person in need.
Approximately 132 meals are given out per day at the Wild Goose, so every £396 raised would pay for one day’s worth of meals!
“The Wild Goose has provided me with food which has kept me alive. I am very, very grateful.” – Wild Goose client
The Wild Goose does more than just provide meals. It also supports clients to address their unmet practical and longer-term needs, particularly those relating to food and housing insecurity. Matt, the Wild Goose’s engagement worker offers vital support through providing telephone and computer access, assistance with form-filling, and referrals to other agencies including drug advice services and housing advocacy services.
“Coming to the Wild Goose has helped me with socialising. It means I get out of the house once a day and I see people. It gives me structure and I get a hot meal. I’m very grateful.” – Wild Goose client
Sleepout event details
The Sleepout will take place on Friday 13th – Saturday 14th October at St Stephen’s Church, 21 St Stephen’s Street, Bristol BS1 1EQ.
Map of Sleepout location
When you arrive, you will need to set yourself up and be settled to sleep by 11pm. You will sleep outside, without shelter in a closed off section of St Stephen’s church in the city centre. Throughout the night, refreshments will be provided by the Wild Goose team.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I arrive?
We ask that you arrive between 22:00 and 22:30, and leave between 6:00 and 6:30 am.
What will you do to ensure that the event is safe?
The area / garden in which you will be sleeping is walled off and the gate will be monitored by a steward at all times. There will be First Aid provision and refreshments will be provided by the Wild Goose. If you have any specific concerns, please do get in touch!
Who can take part?
Anyone aged over 18 (if you would like to take part in a Sleepout but are under 18 or part of a youth group please get in touch with naomi.jervis@inhope.uk)
Can I do it with a friend?
Yes, absolutely! We’d love you to sign up with a friend. But equally, we will ensure that you are not on your own if you choose to sign up by yourself. Each participant needs to fill in the registration form.
Where can I park?
There is no parking at St Stephen’s so you will need to park at a nearby multistorey car park. We would recommend the Bristol City Council Car Park on Trenchard Street where you can park for £5.50 overnight. Alternatively, there are NCP car parks on Nelson Street or Rupert Street.
How do I fundraise?
We understand if you are nervous about fundraising, and we are here to help you every step of the way. When you sign up, you will receive details on how to set up your JustGiving page along with some fundraising tips. If you need any support at any point, get in touch with Naomi on naomi.jervis@inhope.uk.
Here are instructions on how to set up your own JustGiving fundraising page.
Can I bring a tent?
Although we understand that this can seem sensible and safe to you there are some very practical reasons why this is not a good idea so unfortunately tents are not allowed.
I have more questions that you haven’t answered, can I get in touch?
Yes of course, drop us an email on fundraising@inhope.uk or give us a call on 0117 405 7113.
