Challenge: Sleep beneath the stars to support our Armed Forces community
Date: Thursday 14th March 2024
Location: Fort Amherst, Chatham, Kent
GIVE UP YOUR home COMFORTs to help veterans into a warm, safe bed
On the 14th March we need you and your team to brave the cold and sleep out under the stars while fundraising for our most vulnerable veterans. The challenge does not replicate rough sleeping, but it does give you an idea of the situation far too many of the nation’s heroes find themselves in.
If your taking part in the event you can set up a just giving page below. If if you’re unable to take part you can also donate to the campaign.
WHAT IS THE CHAIRMAN’S GREAT TOMMY SLEEP OUT?
The Chairman’s Great Tommy Sleep Out is a fundraising challenge designed to support the estimated 6,000 veterans that are experiencing homelessness in the UK right now.
You have been exclusively invited by our Chairman, Steve Rowbotham, who will host the Sleep out. With other business leaders, you will give up a night of comfort and sleep under a shelter at Fort Amhurst in Chatham. By taking part you’ll increase awareness of veteran homelessness and raise vital funds for RBLI’s emergency accommodation, emergency supplies, welfare services and life changing employability projects.
During the sleep out you will be joined by our veterans where you’ll hear a first-hand account of their experience of life after the forces and how they came to RBLI for support. You’ll be provided with an evening meal and a survivor’s breakfast. This exclusive event will be challenging, reflective and will provide high level networking opportunities for chairmen and CEOs across a range of sectors, as there will be plenty of opportunity to talk with your fellow comrades.
Join #TeamTommy
TO TAKE PART IN THE CHAIRMAN’S GREAT TOMMY SLEEPOUT Sponsored by BAE Systems
Why Join Us?
For more than 100 years RBLI have helped the most vulnerable veterans. Recent global events have deeply impacted military veterans right across the nation and we have seen a 45% increase in the demand for our services for homeless veterans over the past year alone. The cost of living crisis is already having an impact and young, single, male veterans, in particular, can struggle to access social housing and many find themselves living on the streets. It can be impossible to secure employment without a fixed address, plunging them into worsening financial troubles and serious mental health struggles.
The Difference you’ll Make
Every pound you raise from The Chairman’s Great Tommy Sleep Out helps the UK’s most vulnerable veterans by allowing us to provide safe homes and the support they need to get back on their feet. Our emergency accommodation, Mountbatten Pavilion, is facing enormous pressure this winter and will rely heavily on donations.
Your Guide to sleeping out
Read our guides and top tips for recommendations on how to make the most of this challenge.
