Birmingham's Big Sleep Out 2024: A Night to Support Young Homeless People

Hundreds of participants gathered at Millennium Point on Friday evening for Birmingham's Big Sleep Out 2024, an annual event organised by St Basils, a charity dedicated to supporting homeless young people in the West Midlands. The event, aimed at raising vital funds and awareness, kicked off at 6pm and encouraged attendees to spend the night in cardboard shelters as a powerful symbol of the struggles faced by homeless individuals.

The night featured several activities designed to engage participants and raise awareness. Attendees were provided with cardboard boxes to create their sleeping areas, and a competition for the most imaginative shelter added a fun twist to the evening. Throughout the event, entertainment was provided by an Indian drum and dance band, as well as a brass band from the West Midlands Fire Service. A special presentation inside Millennium Point highlighted the positive impact of the support raised by the event, further emphasising the cause's importance.

Participants' cardboard shelters are set up at Millennium Point for Birmingham's Big Sleep Out 2024. Image Credit: @LSweeney1980 via X

Jean Templeton, CEO of St Basils, shared the significance of the event in her statement: "The Big Sleep Out raises vital funds to support homeless young people and educates the public about the challenges they face. Every participant helps us continue providing accommodation and support services across the region."

Homelessness among young people is a growing issue in Birmingham, with St Basils reporting that over 4,000 individuals sought support from the charity in 2023. Events like the Big Sleep Out play a crucial role in funding services that help young people secure stable housing and develop the skills necessary for independent living.

For participant Jack Taylor, the event offered more than just a fun night. "The shelter competition and activities were fun, but sleeping outside gave me a new perspective on the struggles faced by homeless people. It's a powerful reminder of why support is so important."

Social media also played a key role in spreading the message, with many participants sharing highlights of the evening under the hashtag #BigSleepOut2024. Posts featured everything from unique shelter designs to musical performances, helping raise awareness of the cause.

All proceeds from the event will go directly to St Basils, supporting vulnerable individuals across the region and providing essential services to those in need.