Perceptions of participants and stakeholders of a ‘Sleepout’ event held to raise money for, and awareness of, homelessness charity work

Abstract

Fundraising events have become a dominant platform for charities in raising money to deliver services for vulnerable population groups. ‘Sleepout’ events are unique, whereby participants spend one night in a sleeping bag or cardboard shelter, raising awareness and money for homelessness charities. These events have become increasingly popular, particularly in the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.

The present study documents evidence from, as far as can be ascertained, the first study to explore the perceptions of participants regarding sleepout events, including staff from housing and homelessness services, and people with lived experienced of sleeping on the street. Whilst most participants had a favourable view of these events in raising awareness and funds for charity, there was, however, a degree of ambivalence about sleeping outside for one night as the vehicle for fundraising. Many recognised that a single, safely organised outdoor event does not replicate the experiences of street-based sleeping. Therefore, some support staff expressed a very strong and visceral dislike of these events as misleading and distasteful.

Recommendations were made that more consideration should be given to education and awareness raising during the events to ensure participants understand more of the complexity of the issues surrounding homelessness, and the most effective evidence-based solutions.