Alabaré's Big Sleep returns to Salisbury Cathedral
The charity's supporters will be in the Cloisters tonight
Salisbury charity Alabaré is taking over the Cathedral's Cloisters once again tonight (Friday 4th March) so supporters can spend a night learning a little about what's it like to be homeless.
The Big Sleep will see just under 200 people bedding down on the cold stone floor to raise money for the charity's work supporting homeless people in the city and across the South West.
The event had to be cancelled last year, due to the Covid pandemic, with virtual Big Sleep being held in people's gardens.
But they're back together in person this year:
"For 14 years Alabaré has welcomed those who want to take a stand against homelessness to the Salisbury Cathedral. While so many see the effects of the pandemic as being behind us, sadly for many, it will have been the start of their journey towards losing their home, their safety and mental health - and to becoming homeless.
"We are delighted that (supporters) are willing to give up (their) warm beds for the night and sleep on the cold stone floor of the cloisters while raising vital funds and awareness for Alabaré's work with homeless and vulnerable people in Wiltshire. This is a thought-provoking, community event that promises to be bone-chilling, humbling, yet powerful."
Among those taking part are a number of school groups, from Salisbury's St Joseph's and Bishop Wordsworth and the Stonehenge School in Amesbury.
Salisbury's MP, John Glen, is a regular participant in the event, but says he may struggle to be involved this time around.
He's over in Luxembourg, in talks with other European ministers about the crisis in Ukraine, and said:
"I am heading back to Salisbury for the weekend but, for the first time in 12 years, it will be touch and go whether I make it back in time to join in Alabare’s annual Big Sleep.
"If I don’t make it, good luck and successful fundraising to all those forsaking their beds for the night in favour of the chilly cloisters to support one of Salisbury’s most admired charities."