Newark unite for Big Newark Sleep Out 2025 to support local young people in need

Community invited to experience a night of sleeping under the stars and building temporary shelters for the third annual Big Sleep Out.

On Friday, March 7 the event, designed to raise awareness for homelesses and vital funds to support vulnerable people, will take place at the YMCA Community and Activity Village, Newark.

Funds raised from the event will go to Newark Emmaus Trust and YMCA Newark and Sherwood.

Nikki Burley, ceo of Newark Emmaus Trust said: “This event is about so much more than raising money, it’s about empathy and inspiring change.

“By spending one night outside, participants gain a deeper appreciation of the daily struggles faced by many, and they show young people in our community that they’re not forgotten.”

Last year’s Sleep Out was a resounding success, with over 90 participants raising £18,853.

This year, the goal is to surpass £20,000, and organisers are calling on individuals, businesses, and schools to get involved.

Becky Dobb, Community Fundraising manager for YMCA Robin Hood, said: “The support we receive through the Sleep Out transforms lives. It’s inspiring to see the community come together to create real, lasting change for young people in need.”

The success of the Big Newark Sleep Out was contributed by the support of businesses like Buttercross Estates.

For the past two years, Buttercross Estates has been an integral part of the event, providing essential resources and helping to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Managing director Daniel Otton said: “At Buttercross Estates, we’re passionate about supporting our community, and the Big Newark Sleep Out is an incredibly powerful way to do that.

“Spending a night outside gives you just a glimpse of the challenges faced by vulnerable people every day, and it’s an honour to help raise awareness and funds for such a vital cause.

“We encourage other businesses to join us in making a difference.”

Schools are also encouraged to participate by hosting their own fundraising events, such as pyjama days.

These activities provide young people with an opportunity to learn about homelessness while making a meaningful contribution to their community.

For more information and to register, visit https://ymcanewarksherwood.org/big-sleep-out-2025.

Participants will sleep outside the YMCA Village in temporary shelters of their own making, offering a glimpse into the uncertainty and hardship faced by many.

The event is a reminder that homelessness is not a distant issue, it’s a reality for many.