Hastings mass sleep-out returns with registration open

The Seaview Project’s The Big Sleep will be back on The Stade in September, raising funds for some of the town’s most vulnerable people.

Building on the success of last year’s event, which made £23,675, registration is now open for those wishing to join in.

The Big Sleep is organised by the Seaview Awareness 4 Action Group - A4A - comprised of a group of volunteers who are passionate about the work of Seaview.

For 31 years, the Seaview Project has been supporting some of the most vulnerable people in Hastings and St Leonards, most of whom experience problems with their accommodation.

The reality of sleeping rough is not something experienced by the majority of people, and albeit for one night only, The Big Sleep will enable participants to engage with the reality of bedding down for the night with only a cardboard box and sleeping bag for warmth.

It runs from 7.30pm to 7.30am and features music from Hastings favourites King Size Slim and The Rufus Stone Band.

Entertainment is free and open to all between 8pm and 10pm.

The sleepout is a ticketed event, which commences at 10pm in the cardboard city on the Stade open space.

Exclusively for those sleeping out, there will be an unplugged gig around the brazier and a bedtime story from host Steve Furst, from Channel 5 show The Wright Stuff.

Hot drinks will be available throughout the night with porridge served the following morning.

All sleepers will receive a free rough sleeper’s nighttime pack containing basic items including a toothbrush and earplugs.

Details for those wishing to take part, visit www.thebigsleephastings.com and register your interest.

A sponsorship pack is available to download for businesses wishing to be involved – either by activating a team to take part or by donating funds or services.

Sponsorship incentives return this year too: raise £75 or more and receive a Big Sleep t-shirt, raise £150 and get a hoodie.

The biggest fundraiser will receive a special prize presented on The Big Sleep stage and the hardest working business team will also get their own sponsorship banner for their company, which will be on display on the night.

Seaview is still calling upon companies and individuals to support The Big Sleep via sponsorship, donations and services.

Visit its website to get involved or email [email protected].

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