The financial pressure faced by the Sanctuary Trust in delivering its services remains on the rise – with operating costs now around £2,225 per day – the chair of the homelessness charity has said as he encouraged islanders to sign up to its flagship fundraiser.
Participants are being sought for the this year’s Sleep Out, which will take place on Friday 13 November.
Supported by Skipton International, the annual event raises vital funds and awareness to provide accommodation and support for men experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Jersey.
We’d love to make this year’s Sleep Out our biggest yet and encourage individuals, businesses and community groups across Jersey to get involved
Sanctuary Trust chair Tim Ringsdore
Those taking part will abandon the comfort of their homes for a night in Pier Road car park.
The 2025 Sleep Out saw more than 120 participants, raising over £45,000 – with the Sanctuary Trust hoping this year’s event could welcome 150 participants and raise £50,000.
“The Sleep Out continues to be one of Sanctuary Trust’s most important fundraising events and is a fantastic example of our community coming together to make a difference,” said the charity’s chair, Tim Ringsdore.
He noted that this year marks 15 years since Sanctuary Trust was founded. Since opening in 2011, it has supported more than 400 men at crisis points in their lives.
“We are seeing that demand for support remains high and the cost of delivering our services continues to increase, with operating costs now at approximately £2,225 per day,” Mr Ringsdore added.
“Every person who signs up, fundraises or donates helps ensure we can continue
supporting men who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
“We’d love to make this year’s Sleep Out our biggest yet and encourage individuals, businesses and community groups across Jersey to get involved.”
The event runs from 8pm to 6am and there will be acoustic music, hot soup and bread, tea and coffee, and a light breakfast snack in the morning.
Sanctuary Trust chief executive Sarah Tumelty described the Sleep Out as “a wonderful example of our community coming together to make a real difference”.
“Every person who takes part, donates or supports the event helps ensure that people experiencing or at risk of homelessness can receive the right support at the right time,” she continued.
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Sign up for free“The event is not about replicating homelessness. It is about showing solidarity, challenging misconceptions and raising the funds needed to ensure people have access to accommodation, support, and opportunities to move forward.
“We are incredibly grateful to Skipton International for their continued support, and to
everyone who takes part, donates or helps make the event possible. We look forward to
welcoming both new and returning participants this November.”
Participants can register individually or as part of a team, with businesses, organisations, community groups, friends and families all welcome to take part.
Chief people officer at Skipton International, Candice Tabb, said: “As an organisation committed to helping people achieve their homeownership and savings goals, we recognise that having a safe and secure place to call home is something many people can take for granted.
“That’s why we’re proud to support Sanctuary Trust and sponsor this year’s Sleep Out.”
She continued: “The charity plays a vital role in helping people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness in Jersey, while the event raises both essential funds and awareness of the challenges many people face.
“We’re looking forward to seeing islanders come together once again for a cause that makes a real difference in our community.”
Those interested in taking part can find out more and sign up here.
