Homeless charities, Newark Emmaus Trust and YMCA Newark and Sherwood, appeal for fundraising support ahead of Big Newark Sleep Out 2025

The community are invited to once again show solidarity with the homeless by spending a night out in the cold.

For the past two years, The Big Newark Sleep Out has raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Newark Emmaus Trust and YMCA Newark and Sherwood — charities which help to support those experiencing homelessness in and around Newark.

In March, over 90 people took part in the sleep-out, held at the YMCA, on Lord Hawke Way, with individuals, teams, and businesses all coming together and doing their part for a good cause, raising £18,853 in the process.

Organisers have now recognised Mathew Derbyshire of Tallents Solicitors as the highest individual fundraiser, after he collected £1,350 all by himself, while a team from Newark and Sherwood District Council led the way as the top fundraising group, with a total of £4,224.

Now, with The Big Newark Sleep Out set to return for its third year on March 7, 2025, it is hoped that it will be the most successful event yet, with a goal of £20,000 set, building on the success of previous years.

Everyone is invited to sleep out under the stars to help raise awareness as well as vital funds for vulnerable people in our community.

Becky Dobb, YMCA community fundraising manager, said: “The Big Newark Sleep Out is not just about raising money; it’s about showing solidarity with young people who are facing unimaginable challenges.

“We hope more individuals and businesses will sign up for next year — taking part is easy and hugely rewarding.”

Nikki Burley, chief executive of Newark Emmaus Trust, added: “The support we receive makes a tangible difference in the lives of the young people we work with.

“It’s not just about the money, it’s about raising awareness and inspiring action within our community.

“We need everyone to get involved and help us continue to make a difference.”

Funds raised through this event are split equally between the YMCA Newark and Sherwood and the Newark Emmaus Trust.

The YMCA’s portion goes toward children living in their Newark residential care homes and scholarships for activities at the YMCA Village, providing young people with opportunities they might otherwise miss out on.

Meanwhile, the Newark Emmaus Trust provides supported housing for homeless young people aged 16 to 25, offering them not just a place to stay, but also access to educational and community resources that can help them build stable, independent lives.

Homelessness remains a critical issue in the UK, affecting an estimated 121,000 young people each year — with a fifth of all those assessed as being homeless now falling between the ages of 16 and 24-year-olds.

This year alone, the number of young people facing homelessness has risen by 6.6%, highlighting the importance of events such as The Big Newark Sleep Out.

“Every penny we raise goes towards helping young people who are struggling, giving them not just shelter but hope for a better future,” said Becky Dobb.

Registration is now open for individuals or team to sign up for the 2025 sleep out, which can be done by visiting https://ymcanewarksherwood.org/big-sleep-out-2025.

Woolly Big Newark Sleep Out 2025 bobble hats will be available to buy to help raise extra funds.

The Big Newark Sleep Out 2024 trophies were made by students at Newark College and donated by Lincoln College Group.