On Friday 24 January, more than 100 people will be sleeping outside at the KGV to raise vital funds for a new modular housing project.
The Big Skipton Sleep Out is raising money for the Caritas campaign.
The charity recently announced its ambition to raise £1million and secure land to build the innovative modular housing community in the island.
The development will provide accommodation for people experiencing homelessness as they get back on their feet, providing them with a sense of community and restoring their dignity.
A 2023 States of Guernsey Indicators of Poverty report found that over 1,000 people are currently without secure housing, though the lack of clear definition for the term ‘homeless’ means this number could be much higher.
That roughly equates to 1 in 64 island residents, compared to a 2023 report by Shelter which found that 1 in 182 are homeless in England.
Graham Merfield, Chairman at Caritas, said anyone is welcome to take part in the event, backed by Skipton International, with everyone encouraged to get their friends and family to sponsor them too.
“We are indebted to Skipton for partnering with us in support of developing our modular housing community,” he said.
“I encourage as many islanders as possible to show solidarity with those experiencing homelessness by experiencing a night under the stars to raise funds for our vital cause.”
Charlotte Dunsterville, Chief Commercial Officer at Skipton International, is one of those who has committed to taking part to help raise the money.
“The Skipton Big Sleep Out is the latest example in a long line of successful community focused events that we have supported in Guernsey, including Purple Monday, where we accompanied the Meals on Wheels service delivering gift bags to elderly residents, and various talks and careers events designed to inspire students to achieve their goals.
“Skipton International has a proud record of giving first time buyers in Guernsey the opportunity to take their first step on the housing ladder. But sadly, some of the most vulnerable in our society are currently without a roof over their head. Our company values and ethos mean that we cannot turn a blind eye to islanders experiencing homelessness, and we are committed to doing what we can to help through supporting the valuable work of Caritas to provide a tangible solution to the homelessness crisis in Guernsey.
“Several Skipton colleagues – myself included – will be taking part, and if you are able to participate, I encourage you to get involved and support Caritas in their vital work to help those in our society who find themselves without a roof of their own.”
The Big Skipton Sleep Out will take place at the King George V (KGV) on Friday 24 January from 19:00 until 06:30 the following day.
To find out more details and to download the sponsorship form and information booklet, visit: caritas.org.gg/the-big-skipton-sleep-out-2025/
Register today by emailing your name and age (for yourself and for anyone else coming with you) to: sleepout@caritas.org.gg