The Big Newark Sleep Out returns on Friday 20 March 2026
Once again inviting local people to brave a night outdoors and raise vital funds for two frontline youth charities: YMCA Newark & Sherwood and Newark Emmaus Trust.
Hosted each year by YMCA Newark & Sherwood, the event takes place at the YMCA Community & Activity Village-a space where participants are encouraged to reflect on the realities of homelessness. Armed with cardboard, sleeping bags and determination, those taking part give up the comfort of their own beds for one night in solidarity with young people facing uncertain housing situations.
Now in its fourth year, the Big Newark Sleep Out has become a powerful community tradition. The 2025 event, held on 7 March, raised an impressive £15,024.50. Notable contributions included Grace Hickling of YMCA, who raised £570, and the Newark Academy team, who collectively raised£2,200. Over 50 participants came together demonstrating their empathy and support.
Special thanks go to the talented students at Newark College, who designed and produced bespoke trophies awarded to the highest individual and group fundraisers. Their creativity and craftsmanship added a meaningful and lasting recognition for those who went above and beyond in their fundraising efforts.
This year’s Sleep Out aims to build on that success.
All funds raised are equally split between two local charities. For YMCA Newark & Sherwood, the money supports its Scholarship Programme, enabling children and young people to access life-enhancing activities at the YMCA Village, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
World Homeless Day on 10 October is a powerful reminder of just how many lives are affected by homelessness across the UK. As of March 2025, an estimated 131,140 households, including 169,050 children were living in temporary accommodation, marking an 11.8% increase in just one year. Street homelessness also continues to rise, with an estimated4,667 people forced to sleep outside on a single night in autumn 2024 up 20% year-on-year. The Big Newark Sleep Out offers a local, meaningful way to raise awareness of these national challenges, helping people better understand the daily reality for those without a safe or stable place to call home.
Newark Emmaus Trustwill use its share to continue providing supported housing for homeless young people aged 16–25, including young parents. The Trust offers not only a safe place to live, but also practical support to help residents build independent, stable futures.
“This event is about so much more than raising money,” said Nikki Burley, CEO of Newark Emmaus Trust. “It’s about empathy and understanding the challenges that homeless young people in Newark face.”
“No child should miss out because of money,” said Steffen Benbow, Executive Director, YMCA Newark & Sherwood. “The YMCA Scholarship Programme breaks down financial barriers and opens the door to opportunity, belonging and personal growth for every young person so that they can access the many children and youth programmes run by the YMCA.”
Sponsorship for the 2026 event has once again been generously provided by Buttercross Estates, supporting the Big Newark Sleep Out for the fourth consecutive year.
“This is a cause that really matters,” said Daniel Otton, Director of Buttercross Estates. “We’re proud to support an event that not only raises crucial funds but also raises awareness in such a personal and thought-provoking way.”
Register Today
It’s just £15 to register and those who sign up by 19 December 2025 will receive a free Big Newark Sleep Out bobble hat. Participants are encouraged to take part individually or sign up as a team through their workplace, school, or community group. The event offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the realities of homelessness—and to do something meaningful in response.
Do you want to make a difference?
Step into someone else’s shoes for one night. Raise money. Raise awareness. Be part of something powerful.
Register today at: Big Newark Sleep Out 2026