Last Updated on 16/03/2026
Members of the Livery are warmly invited to support a special fundraising event to raise awareness of veterans’ homelessness.
On Friday 26 June 2026, the charity Alabaré, which works across South West England and Wales to break the cycle of homelessness, will host a “Big Sleep” at St Paul’s Cathedral. Participants will swap their beds for sleeping bags for one night to highlight the challenges faced by those without a home and to raise vital funds for veteran support services.
The event has strong civic support: The Lady Mayor, her Consort, and Alderman Sheriff Robert Hughes-Penny will be taking part and would welcome participation from members of the Livery.
The need is pressing. Recent estimates suggest 4,793 people were sleeping rough on a single night in autumn 2025, a record high and the fourth consecutive annual increase. Alabaré has also seen a 122% increase in demand for its veteran services, which provide accommodation and programmes helping former service personnel rebuild independent lives.
The charity hopes to recruit 200 participants to raise at least £200,000 through the event.
Livery Companies and their members are encouraged to support this initiative through participation and fundraising.
Further details will be available soon.
