St Petrock’s announces date for The Big Night Out

Exeter's local homelessness charity, St Petrock’s, is inviting the community to participate in The Big Night Out, a charity sleep-out event designed to raise both awareness and funds for the charity’s work with those experiencing homelessness during what is the charity’s 30th year. The event will take place on Friday, 25th April 2024.

Emma Jones, Community Relations Manager, shares, “St Petrock’s plays a vital role in supporting those facing homelessness. The number of people sleeping rough in our city is sadly rising yet again, placing more pressure on our services, so every donation is crucial. By taking part in the Big Night Out, people can make a real difference to the lives of those who find themselves literally without a roof over their heads.

“For The Big Night Out, we invite people to leave their bed for one night and instead sleep in their garden, at their workplace, in their shed, garage or car to raise funds for St Petrock’s. If you can persuade friends or family to join you, so much the better! While it can never compare to the harsh realities of rough sleeping, it provides participants with a valuable opportunity to gain some idea of how it might feel to be homeless. Not just for one night, but for night after night after night, with nowhere to warm up during the day.”

Peter Stephenson, Chief Executive of St Petrock’s, adds, “This year marks St Petrock’s’ 30th Anniversary. That’s 30 years of providing for the city’s rough sleepers, supported by the generosity of our wonderful local community. When St Petrock’s started, the founders hoped we’d be able to shut up shop after a few years once homelessness had been dealt with. Tragically, however, we are needed more than ever as rough sleeping in the city is at a record high, with nearly 40 people on the streets some nights. This comes at a time when charities are really feeling the squeeze, so the public’s support is needed more than ever.”

30 Years Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness

Founded in 1995, St Petrock’s has been a cornerstone of support for individuals experiencing homelessness in Exeter, particularly those sleeping rough. The charity provides daytime shelter, outreach support, clothing and hot food and drinks, and help to find long-term solutions for homelessness and wellbeing. As St Petrock’s celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the charity reflects on its many achievements and the increasing need for services.

“We’re proud to have reached this milestone,” says Peter Stephenson, Chief Executive of St Petrock’s “But at the same time wish we were no longer needed, rather than being needed more than ever. Every person we work with – and we worked with around 350 rough sleepers last year – is a valuable human being whose life has unravelled in the most awful way, often through no fault of their own.

“So we’re calling on the community to help ensure we can continue helping people put their lives back together again. Every donation, no matter the size, will support individuals as they rebuild their lives.”

To mark its 30th anniversary, St Petrock’s will host several fundraising events throughout the year. These efforts aim to raise essential funds to support the charity’s ongoing mission, especially in the face of rising living costs and increased demand for services.

How to Get Involved

To take part in the Big Night Out, simply go to www.bignightout.org.uk to register and receive an information pack on how to participate safely, have fun, and raise as much sponsorship as possible.

Emma Jones, Community Relations Manager, shares, “I’ll be sleeping on the beach with my dog, using a tarpaulin, so I am hoping for reasonable weather! I’ll also set up a JustGiving page and share on social media to raise awareness.”

If you prefer not to sleep out but want to support the cause, donations can still be made by visiting the St Petrock’s donation page at www.stpetrocks.org.uk/give-help/donate-money .

“We invite the Exeter community to join us as we look to the next 30 years of making a real difference,” says Peter. “Every contribution counts, and together, we can continue to offer hope and support to those who need it most.”

For more information about The Big Night Out and St Petrock’s, visit www.stpetrocks.org.uk