So, will you accept the challenge?
Find out more about The Big Sleep Out below...
What is the Big Sleep Out?
The idea is for participants to get sponsored to sleep outside for just one night in order to raise valuable funds and awareness for the homeless of Somerset. The funds raised go towards the accommodation and support services we provide for our 170 clients.
Whilst our event will show some of the harsh realities of rough sleeping, we do not intend to replicate it. The event is a safe, fun and eye opening experience suitable for everyone.
When and Where is the Big Sleep Out?
The Big Sleep Out will be take place on the evening of Saturday 15th June through to the following Sunday morning. We offer an in-person OR at home event so you can either join us in our car park at The Crescent, Taunton to take part in the event with other participants or choose the 'virtual' option and sleep out in your own garden, at school or with members of your club.
At our 'in person' event, you can enjoy live music and entertainment from local artists & delicious food and hot drinks, before we all settle down in our sleeping bags for the nights. (Cardboard is supplied!) We even provide a free cooked breakfast for everyone as a big well done for getting through the night!
Who can take part?
Everyone! As long as your health allows you to safely sleep outside for the night. We have had people of all ages take part in our past sleep outs, from 4 years old to 84 years old! You can do it alone or as a group - with your family, housemates, colleagues - it's up to you! Whether your choose to do it at The Crescent or at home, there will be a community of us doing this together.
How do I get involved?
You'll need to fill out a registration form and you can either do this online by clicking here, or you can download a registration form at the bottom of this page and return it to us by post or email. If you'd like us to email or post the forms to you, please contact Sam on [email protected] / 07852947954
There is a £10 registration fee for over 18's and £5.00 for 18-16yr olds (under 16's are free) to help Arc cover the costs of the event. This includes an event goodie bag & certificate of completion.
Please pay this along with your registration form either by cash, bank transfer or use the online payment service by clicking here.
Once you're registered, we'll send you further information, sponsorship forms and help you to set up a Just Giving page to raise those all important funds. It's never too early to start raising money!
The question is - will you sleep out at home or join us in our car park? Let's look at your options below:
Sleeping Out in Arc's Car Park:
We really love to get together as one big group to sleep out together!
Participants choosing this option will join us at our head office car park on The Crescent in Taunton so we can sleep under the stars together. It is a great opportunity to come together as a community and there is always a great atmosphere, with opportunity to meet Arc staff, volunteers and hear stories from some of our clients.
There are toilet facilities and security present during the night so whilst this is the more 'authentic' option, we do ensure everyone is kept safe and well. It has always been a family friendly event! Please note that we do not allow tents at our car park based event.
Sleep Out At Home:
We have run 'virtual sleep outs' for the past 4 years and they've been a great way for participants to get involved from their own back gardens! Instead of joining us in our car park, you take part in you own space away from bed, whether that's your garden, a garage or even your kitchen floor if you don't have an outdoor space - get creative!
For our at home participants, we provide a live stream of entertainment during the evening with the opportunity to chat with other participants, Arc staff and clients.
Whichever option you choose, we are so grateful for your participation and can't wait to connect with you either online or in-person on Saturday 15th June. Please make sure you fill in a registration form before the night!
If you can't join in but want to help:
We understand the big sleep out isn't suitable for everyone but we'd love to have your support! By making a donation on our Big Sleep Out Just Giving page, you'll be sponsoring those who are giving up their beds for the night as well as helping those who are suffering with homelessness and need Arc's support.
Click here to read more about last year's Big Sleep Out
Or click here to see photos of virtual sleep outs, for some sleep out at home inspiration!