CHESS BIG SleepOut – Make a Difference This Winter

The CHESS BIG SleepOut is a powerful annual fundraising event held at Chelmsford Cathedral, where participants are sponsored to spend one night sleeping outside – experiencing a glimpse of what it’s like to be homeless.

Taking place in the heart of winter, the event challenges supporters to brave the cold, hard ground and unpredictable weather, all in solidarity with those facing homelessness. Every pound raised goes directly towards CHESS’s vital work – providing temporary accommodation and support services to homeless adults in Chelmsford & Essex, helping them rebuild their lives and regain independence.

What Happens at the Sleepout?

ON THE NIGHT

  • Come along to Chapter House (opposite the Cathedral) from 8pm for registration and a pot noodle, cup of hot soup, snacks or other hot drinks.

  • There will be a short presentation on the work of the charity from our CEO and information on how the night will run, health & safety etc.
  • At around 9.30pm we will be off to our ‘beds’ over in the grounds of the Cathedral.
  • There will be access to toilets throughout the night and CHESS staff on site to provide hot drinks. In addition we have a security service patrolling the grounds throughout the event and registered first aiders should it be required.
  • At 7am there will be a bacon roll and hot drink provided before you set off home.

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

  • Sleeping Bag, Bed Roll or Cardboard to sleep on (this must be taken with you when you leave).
  • Warm clothes to resist the weather.
  • A full Information Pack will be sent to you on registration.
  • Please note no alcohol is allowed on the premises and we recommend no valuables.
 

HOW TO REGISTER AND PAY

Click on the registration button below where you will be able to register and pay to take part and we will be in touch with your Sleepout Pack.

If you did want to advertise the event to your contacts/groups you can download a flyer SleepOut Flyer 2025 (1)

We are only able to take online event payments via Paypal currently so if you do not have a Paypal account then other options are:

  1. Pay over phone on 01245 281104
  2. Cash/cheque at 200 New London Road, CM2 9AB
  3. Registration can be paid on the night by cash or card
 
REGISTER