This year, Stephen Robertson, Big Issue Foundation Chief Executive, will join supporters and Big Issue vendors for not one but two Sleep Out events.
He will start with ‘The Big Sleep Out’ at the Kia Oval on Friday 16th November to fundraise for the crucial work of The Big Issue Foundation. He will then go on to do the first ever ‘Big Stadium Sleep Out’ on Friday 30th November, run in partnership with Saints Foundation, at Southampton Football Stadium.
It is estimated that on any given night in England 4,700 people are sleeping rough. This is 15% up on the previous year and more than double the original count in 2010. The need to take action to support those who find themselves in this situation is greater than ever.
Stephen said ‘The Big Sleep Out is a vitally important event in our calendar. It raises awareness of some of the serious issues faced by people who are experiencing exclusion in many forms. It shines a spot light on the solutions offered by The Big Issue, the help that we offer through The Big Issue Foundation and raises the funds that are needed to enable our charity to offer opportunities and solutions for hard working Big Issue vendors. I am looking forward to meeting everyone on the night and taking part in the challenge.’
Not only will Stephen be taking on this challenge, he will also be participating in a panel discussion at the London event. The panel will also consist of current and former vendors who will discuss their stories, the realities of selling the Big Issue and how the Foundation supports vendors to rebuild their lives.
You can support Stephen by sponsoring him here to help him smash his target of £1000.
