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The Big Sleepout

Events

  • Start Date: 13th Nov, 2026 @ 6:00pm
  • Closing Date: 14th Nov, 2026 @ 6:00am
  • Location: Alexander Stadium, Walsall Road, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2LR

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The Big Sleepout

For the 36th Big Sleepout, we’re spending the night at the iconic Alexander Stadium – home of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and host of the European Athletics Championships.

On Friday 13th November, join hundreds of others as we swap our beds for one unforgettable night under the stars, raising vital funds and awareness to help prevent youth homelessness across the West Midlands.

What The Big Sleepout Is – And Isn’t

Spend one night sleeping outdoors so a young person doesn’t have to. Alongside entertainment, live music, hot food and drinks, activities, inspiring stories from young people and the St Basils team, and the return of our popular Creative Cardboard Competition, you’ll be helping raise vital funds to prevent youth homelessness.

The Big Sleepout is not designed to replicate the reality of homelessness. Instead, it provides a safe and supportive opportunity to learn about the challenges young people face, hear how St Basils is changing lives and help ensure more young people can access safe accommodation, specialist support and brighter futures. The event is developed in consultation with young people to ensure it is inclusive and sensitive to the realities of homelessness.

New for 2026!

Because of the change in venue, the event will be divided into two distinct areas. Schools and youth groups will have their own dedicated section in the stadium, complete with shelter zones, toilets, a warm space, and their own presentation.

Meanwhile, individuals, corporates, and community groups will have their own space too, which will also include a quiet area for families and anyone seeking a calmer atmosphere.

Take part in The Big Sleepout

Registration Fee & Fundraising

This year, we’ve made the decision to charge £16 for an individual place.

We know this is a big change as the Big Sleepout has historically been a free event, however this decision has been made after reviewing how other charities run similar events and reflecting on how we can continue to grow the event in the face of the rising cost of living.

Why £16?

St Basils is currently facing a £16 shortfall per young person, per night, and we support over 1,000 young people with accommodation services every year. To help bridge this gap, we’re asking individuals to turn their one night of fundraising into two weeks by raising an additional £224. For Corporates, we ask you try to turn your nights into 10 weeks, £1,120.

For Schools & Youth Groups, entry remains free, but we ask each group to raise £960 to cover 2 months.

Fundraising pages will be automatically created during registration.

Tragically, youth homelessness remains a growing issue, with one young person (16-25 years old) facing homelessness every 4 minutes* across the UK. With support from events like this, we are able to give young people a safe place to stay, and help them to get back up on their feet.

*Centrepoint, 2026

Under 18 Groups Sign Up

Help both your young people and ours by signing up to The Big Sleepout for Under 18s. Participation helps foster empathy, educate on homelessness and bring young people and their mentors together as a team.

As a school or youth group, you will have your own dedicated area at this year’s Big Sleepout. Click below to find out more and sign up:

Sign Up as an Under 18 Group / School

What to expect at The Big Sleepout

FAQs

Does it cost to take part?

Yes, this year the registration fee to take part in The Big Sleepout is £16. We also ask you to raise sponsorship, as every pound helps St Basils prevent youth homelessness across the West Midlands.

How much sponsorship do I need to raise?

We ask every participant to aim for a minimum fundraising target of £224, which covers the shortfall for two weeks at St Basils. We’ll support you every step of the way with fundraising tips, resources and your own personalised fundraising page.

Where is The Big Sleepout taking place?

For the first time ever, The Big Sleepout will take place at the iconic Alexander Stadium in Birmingham.

What time does the event start and finish?

The event begins at 6:00pm on Friday 13th November and finishes the following morning at 6:00am. Full timings will be included in this year’s Event Pack.

What should I wear?

November evenings can be cold, so we recommend dressing in warm layers and bringing waterproof clothing just in case. Hats, gloves, thick socks and comfortable footwear are all strongly encouraged.

What should I bring?

You’ll need:

  • A sleeping bag
  • A roll mat or something to sleep on
  • Warm clothing and waterproofs
  • Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks
  • A torch and fairy lights
  • Any toiletries and personal medication you may need

Please leave tents, alcohol and glass bottles at home.

What is provided on the night?
  • A safe and secure venue
  • Overnight security and event stewards
  • Toilet facilities
  • Hot food and drinks
  • A presentation & evening entertainment
  • Breakfast before you head home
Is this like experiencing homelessness?

No. The Big Sleepout does not attempt to replicate the harsh reality of homelessness.

Instead, it’s an opportunity to learn more about youth homelessness in a safe and supportive environment, hear about the work of St Basils, and raise vital funds to help prevent homelessness across the West Midlands.

Is there entertainment?

Yes! Throughout the evening there’ll be entertainment, musical guests, activities and inspiring stories from young people and the St Basils team during our presentation. We’ll also be bringing back our popular Creative Cardboard Competition.

What is the Creative Cardboard Competition?

Bring along extra cardboard and decorate your sleeping space to impress our judges! Just remember to pre-cut any cardboard, as scissors will not be allowed on site.

Over the years we’ve seen castles, famous landmarks, racing cars and even a train: The St Basils Express. There are prizes up for grabs, so let your imagination run wild.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The Big Sleepout will go ahead in most weather conditions, as it’s an outdoor event.

If severe weather is forecast, we’ll monitor guidance from the Met Office and make any decisions with participant safety as our top priority. Should plans need to change, we’ll let everyone know as soon as possible.

Can I take part as part of a team?

Absolutely! The Big Sleepout is perfect for workplaces, schools, community groups, sports clubs and groups of friends. Whether you’re taking part as a team or individually, you’ll all be helping to prevent youth homelessness.

How many people take part?

Every year, hundreds of people join us for The Big Sleepout, creating an incredible atmosphere of community, compassion and support.

What happens after I register?

Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive:

  • Your personalised fundraising page
  • Fundraising resources and ideas
  • Event updates
  • Information about what to expect on the night
  • Support from the St Basils team throughout your fundraising journey
Why has the venue changed this year?

We’re excited to bring The Big Sleepout to Alexander Stadium for the first time ever. The larger venue allows us to welcome even more supporters while creating an unforgettable experience at one of Birmingham’s most iconic sporting venues.

Can I sleep next to my friends or team?

Yes! We’ll do our best to ensure you can sleep alongside your friends, family or colleagues. If you’re registering separately, just let us know when you arrive.

A huge thank you to Alexander Stadium for hosting us this year. View our event Terms and Conditions here.

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