ALABARÉ is proud to host its iconic BIG Sleep at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday, 26 June 2026, marking its first-ever public sleep-out at the world-famous site.
The BIG Sleep aims to raise awareness and funds to break the cycle of veterans’ homelessness in the UK.
Veterans Homelessness: The Reality
- In 2023–24, 2,270 veteran households in England were recorded as at risk of or experiencing homelessness. [questions-…liament.uk]
- UK-wide, an estimated 7,500 veterans are homeless, sleeping rough, or in refuges. [centreform…hology.com]
- In London alone, 13,231 people slept rough between April 2024 and March 2025 – a 10% rise year-on-year. [crisis.org.uk], [homeless.org.uk]
Supporting Veterans Like Ian
Ian served in the military from 2009. Just 12 months ago, Ian was street homeless. He came to ALABARÉ through its emergency bedspaces, unsure of what the future held. Ian has now moved into a home he helped build through ALABARÉ’s Veteran Self-Build Scheme. Over the past year, Ian has gained valuable construction skills and secured full-time employment.
ALABARÉ’s veteran services go beyond housing
ALABARÉ provides veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness with holistic support – including mental health care, skills training, and pathways to independence – living their mission to provide homes, restore hearts, and empower minds.
Event Highlights:
- Date & Time: Friday 26 June, 17:00 – 07:00
- Location: The churchyard of St Paul’s Cathedral
- Entry Fee: £20 per person
- Fundraising Target: Minimum £500
- Perks: Top 15 fundraisers attend breakfast at Mansion House
- Agenda:
- Evensong at St Paul’s
- Performances by a Military Wives Choir
- Veteran testimonies of resilience and hope
- Refreshments and breakfast provided
How to Sign Up
Register at http://thebigsleep.org.uk – spaces are limited, and early booking is advised.
ALABARÉ Chief Executive, Andrew Lord, said:
“This landmark event will shine a light on the crisis of veterans sleeping rough. Together, we can break the cycle of homelessness and help those who served us.”
Supporting Armed Forces Day
ALABARÉ’s BIG Sleep at St Paul’s Cathedral has been timed to coincide with this year’s Armed Forces Day (27 June).
Participants will be joined by current and veteran military personnel who will be waking up on Saturday morning before heading off to participate in Armed Forces Day activities across the country.
