The Big Sleep 2026

The Bridge Homelessness to Hope will be hosting The Big Sleep 2026 - its annual fundraising event – overnight from 8pm on Tuesday 17 March to 8am the following morning at the University of Leicester Centenary Square.

At the annual ‘The Big Sleep’ event, people are invited to sleep outside for one night to raise money for, and awareness of the challenges experienced by the city’s homeless and rough sleepers.

All funds raised from The Big Sleep will support the vital work of The Bridge Homelessness to Hope including breakfast and lunch services, access to hot showers, clothing and toiletries, washing and drying facilities. Funds raised will also support the roles of three Case Workers, who support guests with a range of needs, such as housing and benefit advice, connecting with a GP or dentist, and accessing mental health and wellbeing support.

This year, The Bridge Homelessness to Hope is also offering the chance for people to take part in The Big Sleep 2026 by sleeping outside in their own back gardens between 16-22 March 2026.

People can either take part in this fundraising event as an individual or by building up a team of supporters by getting friends, family and colleagues involved. Supporters can also sponsor individuals who have already signed up to take part. For more information on taking part, visit The Big Sleep web page or sponsor the event here.

Pablo Cortés, volunteer and Professor of Law/Chair in Civil Justice at the University of Leicester commented:

"I volunteer at The Bridge because I believe a community is judged by how it treats those who are struggling the most. Many of the people who come through its doors are not only hungry, cold and isolated, but also coping with complex physical and mental health difficulties. What moves me most is the dignity with which The Bridge approaches its work. It does not simply provide food and clothing; it offers a warm, welcoming space, practical help with housing and services, and—crucially—human recognition.

"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, added:

“Homelessness remains a significant challenge in Leicester and we saw continued high numbers of guests needing to access our services last year. The Big Sleep is our flagship fundraising event and has been incredibly successful over the last few years, generating vital funds to support our work and raising awareness of the conditions affecting our guests most nights of their lives. We’re calling on individuals and businesses to help us out this year by participating, sponsoring or donating – all support is gratefully appreciated and will help our vulnerable guests directly!”