The fourth Big Newark Sleep Out brought together individuals, businesses and community groups on Friday evening at the YMCA Community & Activity Village, raising over £9,000 so far, with donations still coming in.
Participants gave up the comfort of their beds to spend a night outdoors, helping to raise awareness of homelessness and the challenges faced by vulnerable young people across Newark. Funds raised from the event go directly back into the local community, supporting YMCA Newark & Sherwood’s Scholarship Programme and Newark Emmaus Trust.
Across England, more than 130,000 households, including over 169,000 children, are currently living in temporary accommodation, often without stability or a place to call home. The Big Newark Sleep Out provides a powerful reminder of this growing issue, while creating meaningful local impact.
“Each year, this event really stays with you. For most of us, it’s just one night, but for some young people, this is their reality every night. That’s the part that really hits home. Seeing so many people come together, brave the cold, and support local young people is amazing. The funds raised will help make sure young people here in Newark have opportunities, support and a chance to feel part of something.” Caroline Cartwright, Marketing Manager, YMCA Robin Hood Group.
Funds raised for YMCA Newark & Sherwood will support its Scholarship Programme, helping children and young people access activities they might otherwise miss due to financial hardship, from sport and climbing to youth programmes and holiday camps. Meanwhile, Newark Emmaus Trust will use its share to provide supported housing and life skills support for young people aged 16–25, including young parents, helping them move towards independence.
Nikki Burley, CEO Newark Emmaus Trust, is always grateful for the support.
“My colleague Sharon Richardson and I are always humbled by the support we’ve had over the last four years, and yet again, when we look around tonight, there are so many people sleeping out with us showing their support and braving a long night. The funds raised make a real difference, helping us provide safe accommodation and the support young people need to rebuild their lives. We’d also like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated, especially to those who contributed to the Emmaus total of over £1,200. It really does mean so much to us.”
The event was once again supported by Buttercross Estates, who returned as headline sponsor for the fourth consecutive year. And led fundraising efforts, raising an impressive £1,485. Daniel Otton, MD. “This is something we care deeply about and are proud to play such a key role in supporting and taking part in the event. The generosity from the community is always incredible, thank you to everyone who has donated. It means a lot.”
Local businesses and community groups played a significant role, including MES Building Solutions, whose team exceeded their fundraising target. Sarah Robinson is a regular at the Sleep Out. “This is my fourth year taking part. It’s such an important opportunity to raise awareness and, even more so, to raise money for two great local charities. We set ourselves a target of £1,000 and were delighted to see we’d smashed it, we’re now at £1,031.”
The YMCA Children’s Residential Services team, who care for young people across Newark and Nottinghamshire, also took part, raising over £900. Becky Gemmell, Operations Director. “We see first-hand how families are affected by hardship. Taking part as a team was our way of showing support. It was cold, especially my feet! But a really worthwhile experience, and I even managed a few hours’ sleep”
Other notable fundraising efforts included Newark Rowing Club (over £700), Aly Greenway’s team (nearly £600), YMCA Supported Housing Worksop Team (over £600), and Alan Davidson, a YMCA member, who raised over £300.
The evening was further broadcast live by Radio Newark, with Jamie Curt presenting, supported by Harrison Faulkner, helping to share the message with the wider community. Speaking live from the event, Jamie said, “There’s such a powerful atmosphere here tonight. It might be cold, but there’s a real warmth in the community spirit. What stands out is that everyone here has chosen to be here for one night, but it helps raise awareness for those who don’t have that choice.”
Organisers are encouraging continued support, with donations still open as they aim to grow the total even further.
You can find out more about the Sleep Out online at ymcanewarksherwood.org/big-sleep-out and still donate, helping to create lasting impact for young people across Newark.