The annual Big Skipton Sleepout will return in 2027 for a third instalment – this time raising money for Action for Children as well as Caritas Guernsey.
Both charities support people facing homelessness – with Action for Children focusing on people under the age of 25, and Caritas supports adults aged 25-55.
This means the 2027 Skipton Sleepout will benefit even more people, said the organisers.
“A safe and secure home gives people the foundation from which to build their lives,” said Susan Fouquier, Chief Executive Officer of Skipton International.
“As a bank that helps people achieve their property ambitions, we understand the importance of having that security and the impact when it is missing.”
Created by Skipton International, the ‘Big Sleepout’ brings people together for one night sharing the experience of sleeping outside.
The event raises both funds and awareness for people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in Guernsey.
The two beneficiaries also raise funds and awareness for people directly affected by homelessness, and give them practical support along with both short- and long-term solutions.
Action for Children’s Guernsey Youth & Housing Project supports young people under 25 with emergency accommodation, mediation, mentoring, independent living support, and help with education and employment.
Caritas Guernsey currently provides accommodation through its pods and is developing a modular housing community to offer secure homes and ongoing support for people experiencing homelessness.
Aaron Davies, Children’s Services Manager at Action for Children Guernsey, said: “Early support can make a significant difference for a young person who is at risk of homelessness or has nowhere safe to stay.
“Becoming a beneficiary of The Big Skipton Sleep Out will help us continue providing practical and emotional support tailored to the needs of young people in Guernsey. It will also help raise awareness of youth homelessness, why it happens, and the support available to help prevent it.
“We look forward to working with Skipton International and Caritas Guernsey ahead of the 2027 event.”
Graham Merfield, Chair of Caritas Guernsey, added: “Homelessness is a complex issue that no single organisation can address alone. Action for Children’s work to support young people and prevent homelessness complements our plans to provide secure accommodation and an ongoing support network for people who need help to move forward.
“The Big Skipton Sleep Out has already generated significant support for our work. We welcome Action for Children as a beneficiary and look forward to building on the event’s impact together in 2027.”
“Caritas Guernsey and Action for Children address homelessness in different but complementary ways,” said Ms Fouquier.
“Their work ranges from helping young people avoid homelessness and prepare for independent living, to creating secure homes and providing longer-term support for people experiencing homelessness.
“Supporting both charities through the 2027 event will allow The Big Skipton Sleep Out to help people with different needs and circumstances. We would encourage businesses, community groups, friends, and families to start thinking about entering a team and joining us for what we hope will be our biggest Sleep Out yet.”
Skipton said further details about The Big Skipton Sleep Out 2027 will be announced in the coming months.
