A HOMELESS charity is encouraging people across Basingstoke and Deane to swap their soft beds for sleeping bags and cardboard, for one night only.

Julian House has organised the Big Basingstoke Sleep Out, which is returning on Friday, March 15, at May’s Bounty Sports Ground.

It found success with the event last year, with over 100 people signing up and taking part.

It hopes to get a bigger turnout this year at the sleep out.

READ MORE: Partnership pledges to continue work to end rough sleeping in the borough

Event organiser Gavin Osborn said: “The Sleep Out was a huge success last year, winning Best Community Project at Destination Basingstoke’s Place to be Proud Of awards. We are delighted to bring it back to May’s Bounty this March.

“As those who took part last time will agree, it’s a great way for the community to come together as well as a chance to reflect on the challenges rough sleepers face every day.”

The idea of the event is not to replicate how homeless people feel rough sleeping, but to raise funds to help the charity both rebuild and save lives.

Julian House is encouraging people of all ages to sign up early and start fundraising. It’s free for anyone under 16 and £5 for adults to register for the challenge.  

Last year Julian House provided life-changing support to over 2,000 vulnerable people who were experiencing, or at risk of homelessness across Basingstoke and the South-West.