Sleepout 2026
Sleepout 2026 is an opportunity to raise vital funds to help people who sleep rough on the streets of Bristol. Join with other inHope supporters in spending one night in a city centre location and give hope to people who have no other choice.
Whilst one night sleeping outside could never fully replicate the horrors faced by people rough sleeping, it does offer an opportunity to understand some of the challenges and raise awareness amongst your connections and the general public.
This year, the Sleepout will be raising money for inHope’s services that help people experiencing homelessness.
In 2025/2026,
The Wild Goose served an average of 114 meals a day to people who are homeless and sleeping rough.
77 women stayed in the night shelter at Spring of Hope, who otherwise would have stayed in unsafe circumstances, often on the streets and vulnerable to all sorts of violence.
6,510 three day emergency food parcels were given to people experiencing from food insecurity at South & East Bristol Foodbanks.
10 people took part in the Life Course and received skills and support to help them live well in recovery.
29 guests stayed at the Bristol Churches Shelter over a five month winter period of which 25 moved into further accommodation.
Here’s what one service user had to say:
“The many meals and essential items which they have provided for me, when I had no one else to turn to, is only part of how they helped me. They took the time to compassionately and sincerely take a genuine concern in my personal problems.”
By sleeping out for one night, you can change the lives of people who have to sleep rough every night.
Sleepout event details
The Sleepout will take place on Friday 9th – Saturday 10th October at St Stephen’s Church, 21 St Stephen’s Street, Bristol BS1 1EQ.
Map of Sleepout location
Sleepout 2026 will take place in the walled garden at St Stephens Church in Bristol City Centre. We can’t promise a good night’s sleep, as the church is surrounded by sights and sounds of a bustling city centre. However, the garden will be stewarded for the whole night and there are toilets and facilities to make a hot drink on site. You just need to bring your own cardboard and sleeping bag!
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I arrive?
We ask that you arrive around 21:00, and leave by 7am.
Who can take part?
Anyone aged over 18
If you are under 18, part of a youth group, or interested in planning your own sleepout at your garden or church, please get in touch with us fundraising@inhope.uk.
Can I do it with a friend?
Yes, absolutely! We’d love you to sign up with a friend. But equally, we will ensure that you are not on your own if you choose to sign up by yourself. Each participant needs to fill in the registration form.
How do I fundraise?
We understand if you are nervous about fundraising, and we are here to help you every step of the way. When you sign up, you will receive details on how to set up your JustGiving page along with some fundraising tips. If you need any support at any point, get in touch with us fundraising@inhope.uk.
Will it be safe?
The area / garden in which you will be sleeping is walled off and the gate will be monitored by a steward at all times. There will be First Aid provision and refreshments will be provided by the Wild Goose. If you have any specific concerns, please do get in touch!
Where can I park?
There is no parking at St Stephen’s so you will need to park at a nearby multistorey car park. We would recommend the Bristol City Council Car Park on Trenchard Street where you can park for £6 overnight. Alternatively, there is the NCP car park on Rupert Street.
Can I bring a tent?
Although we understand that this can seem sensible and safe to you there are some very practical reasons why this is not a good idea so unfortunately tents are not allowed.
I have more questions that you haven’t answered, can I get in touch?
Yes of course, drop us an email on fundraising@inhope.uk or give us a call on 0117 405 7113.
