Launchpad, Reading’s leading homelessness charity is asking people to swap their comfortable bed for a night under the stars to ensure others in Reading don’t have to.

On July 6 the 18th Big Sleep Out, an overnight fundraiser, will be taking place in the University of Reading Whiteknight’s campus.

All money raised from this event will help people from across Reading avoid homelessness.  These funds are vital, as Launchpad has seen a 30% increase in demand for its services, year on year.

Fundraising Manager at Launchpad Fiona Keyte said, “We can’t guarantee that people who take part will have a comfortable night – or get much sleep!

"But we are certain that anyone that takes part will have a memorable night and understand why we work so hard to prevent people from becoming homeless.”

The event begins with an evening of entertainment within the Meadow Suite on the University campus – which will include live music, a prize raffle, a hot meal, and talks from Launchpad staff and clients.

After the evening’s entertainment, everyone will head out to the meadow to bed down for the night.

Registration for the Big Sleep Out is £24 per participant, or £22 if you take advantage of our early bird offer and sign up before the 31 May.

Registration fees help cover the cost of evening and breakfast meals, and the cost of putting on the event. 

Launchpad are asking each participant to raise a minimum of £250.