ALABARÉ Hosts First-Ever Public Sleep-Out at St Paul’s Cathedral
We're proud to be holding our iconic BIG Sleep at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday, 26 June 2026, to help break the cycle of veterans' homelessness.
ALABARÉ is proud to host our iconic BIG Sleep at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday, 26 June 2026, marking our first-ever public sleep-out at the world-famous site.
The BIG Sleep aims to raise awareness and funds to break the cycle of veterans’ homelessness in the UK.
Veterans Homelessness: The Reality
- In 2023–24, 2,270 veteran households in England were recorded as at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
- UK-wide, an estimated 7,500 veterans are homeless, sleeping rough, or in refuges.
- In London alone, 13,231 people slept rough between April 2024 and March 2025 – a 10% rise year-on-year.
ALABARÉ Chief Executive, Andrew Lord, said:
“This landmark event will shine a light on the crisis of veterans sleeping rough. Together, we can break the cycle of homelessness and help those who served us.”
Supporting Veterans Like Ian
Ian (featured in the video to the right) served in the military from 2009. Just 12 months ago, Ian was street homeless.
He came to ALABARÉ through our emergency bedspaces, unsure of what the future held.
Ian has now moved into a home he helped build through ALABARÉ’s Veterans’ Self-Build Scheme.
Over the past year, Ian has gained valuable construction skills and secured full-time employment.
We’re looking to secure further Veterans’ Self-Build opportunities, with a dedicated JustGiving page set up in support of the scheme.
ALABARÉ’s veterans’ services go beyond housing
We provide veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness with holistic support – including mental health care, skills training, and pathways to independence – living our mission to provide homes, restore hearts, and empower minds.
Event Highlights
- Date & Time: Friday 26 June, 17:00 – 07:00
- Location: The churchyard of St Paul’s Cathedral, London
- Entry Fee: £20 per person
- Fundraising Target: Minimum £500
- Perks: Top 15 fundraisers attend breakfast at Mansion House
- What’s happening?
- Evensong at St Paul’s
- Performances by a Military Wives Choir
- Veteran testimonies of resilience and hope
- Refreshments and breakfast provided
Supporting Armed Forces Day
ALABARÉ’s BIG Sleep at St Paul’s Cathedral has been timed to coincide with this year’s Armed Forces Day (27 June).
Participants will be joined by current and veteran military personnel who will be waking up on the Saturday morning, before heading off to participate in Armed Forces Day activities across the country.
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