Alabare’s Big Sleep Stonehenge has raised an impressive £52,000 to support homeless veterans – with Andover businesses and residents playing a key role in the fundraising success.
The landmark event, held overnight on Friday 14 November at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, saw 120 supporters take on the challenge of sleeping outdoors to raise money for former military personnel facing homelessness.
It is the first time English Heritage has ever allowed a public charity sleepout at the world-famous site.
Despite heavy rain and strong winds as Storm Claudia swept over the area, spirits remained high. As the night progressed, the skies cleared long enough for stargazing before a moving sunrise remembrance service inside the stone circle.
Andover companies step up
Two well-known Andover employers – Twinings and Rich Products – took part in the sleepout, sending teams of supporters and providing hot drinks and snacks to help keep participants going through the night.
Local involvement played a notable role in the event’s success, highlighting the strong support for veterans across the Andover area.
Supporting veterans through crisis
All the money raised will go directly to Alabare’s Homes for Veterans programme, which provides safe accommodation, mental-health support, life-skills coaching and confidence-building outdoor activities.
Demand for support continues to rise sharply – with a 122% increase in referrals over the past year.
Government figures show around 6,000 veterans are currently homeless, with one in every 400 former service personnel now without stable housing.
Supporters at the event heard emotional first-hand accounts from veterans whose lives have been changed through Alabare’s work.
‘A powerful reminder of what rough sleepers face’
James Tomlinson, Alabare’s Director of Strategic Communications, said:
“It wasn’t an easy night, with the changing weather and the unfamiliar noises around the site. But that made the experience more authentic – giving people a small taste of what rough sleepers endure every night.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who took part and helped raise such an amazing amount.”
The event also featured support from well-known figures including Time Team archaeologist Phil Harding, record-breaker Nick Butter, the Mayor of Salisbury, and food creator Hungry Woman Cooks.
How to support the appeal
Residents wishing to help can donate to Alabare’s Winter Appeal, which supports homeless people across the region – including veterans.
Donate here: https://alabare.co.uk/get-involved/charity-winter-appeal/
