Taunton's BIG Sleep Out raises over £4,000 for homeless charity

People set up camp overnight in the freezing cold to help raise valuable funds for Taunton's homeless community.

The annual BIG Sleep Out, held on June 15, saw 50 generous individuals take on the challenge in the carpark at Number 7 The Crescent.

It marks its 10-year anniversary and successfully raised over £4,000 for Arc, formerly Taunton Association for the Homeless.

Organisations and businesses supported the event, who donated money, items or time to ensure it was a success.

Six local artists were also present at the BIG Sleep Out, including Maya Yon, Ben from Atomic Kitten, Daniel Amatiello, Stevie Nicole Brown, Ryder Emcee and Sam Cockram.

The event also introduced a new wellbeing area that was well-received by families.

(Image: Arc)

The sleepout fundraiser, despite the cold weather, is not meant to emulate homelessness, but rather raise awareness and vital funds for Arc's ongoing work in Somerset.

Lynda Marshall, participating in her wheelchair, said: "I wanted to take part in the sleep out and asked for donations instead of birthday presents as I empathise with those without a home."

(Image: Arc)

If you are interested in taking part in next year's BIG Sleep Out in Taunton, it takes place on June 7, 2025.