The event aims to raise awareness and vital funds for local homelessness charities St Petrocs and the Amber Foundation.
As part of the event, attendees can expect to hear insightful readings, beautiful live music and inspiring talks from experts and those affected by homelessness. Dinner will be prepared by the participants during cookery workshops with Eden Project chefs and breakfast will be provided in the morning.
This year’s Sleep Out comes at a critical time when the homelessness crisis in the South West is worsening. St Petrocs, which works to end homelessness in Cornwall, has found the number of people accessing its services is higher now than it has ever been. The organisation supported 1,357 people in Cornwall last year (2023), which was a 7 per cent increase from 2022.
The Amber Foundation, who run four supported housing centres across the south of England, provide housing for young people aged 18 to 30. Alongside their homelessness experience, last year 72 per cent of the young people who came to the organisation reported mental health issues on arrival. In addition, 55 per cent had a history of substance abuse and nearly 50 per cent had previously been involved with children’s social care.
The charities’ findings show that homelessness tends to peak in the colder months from December through to the end of February, and as more people struggle to afford the essentials, including rent, their services are often working at maximum capacity.
For over a decade the Eden Project has hosted an annual Sleep Out. As an educational charity, a key area of focus within the organisation’s mission is community, with an underlying belief that strong communities have an important part to play in overcoming today’s challenges, making the event a natural fit.
Last year’s Eden Project Sleep Out saw around 85 participants taking part, raising more than £13,000 in the process.
Since the first Sleep Out held at the Eden Project in 2014, hundreds of people have taken part in the event and collectively raised more than £100,000 for homelessness charities.
Dan James, the Eden Project’s development director, said: "As an educational charity, inspiring action and communicating positive change, the Sleep Out is such a special event in the Eden Project calendar. We know that one night of discomfort for participants can bring meaningful benefits to so many in need.
“By coming together at events such as this, we can make a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness. No one should have to face the cold alone and we are proud of the impact the Sleep Out continues to have through the funds and awareness raised."
Lois Wild, director of engagement at St Petrocs, said: “The Sleep Out at the Eden Project is such a meaningful and impactful event and we are absolutely delighted to be a part of it.
“The funds raised through the event directly help us in delivering our winter services where we can provide emergency accommodation for those who otherwise would be facing a night sleeping outside. Last winter the funds helped us to support 338 people who were sleeping rough. Unfortunately, this year, due to the growing demand we are experiencing, we expect this figure to be higher.”
Rebecca Fry, the Amber Foundation’s fundraising manager, said: “The past decade of Sleep Out events at the Eden Project have been a testament to the power of community and caring. The funds we’ve raised with the help of amazing participants have provided shelter and critical support to hundreds of young people when they needed it most.
“We look forward to being involved in this special and unique event for many more years, continuing to raise much needed awareness and vital funds to support young people move on to thrive, despite the challenges they have experienced.”
To sign up and take part in this year’s Eden Project Sleep Out see: www.edenproject.com.
