A wintery night at Watford FC

With temperatures dropping as low as -2C on the night, the 2025 Stadium Sleepout was no-doubt an eye-opening experience for many of those who took part.

Close to 200 people registered for the event and arrived laden with sleeping bags, ground mats and layers, so many layers. The evening began with hot pie and mash, an incredible performance by Electric Umbrella, and a range of giant games and activities including an opportunity to make rough-sleeping kits with Hand on Heart. Later in the evening, representatives from New Hope, Watford FC Sports and Education Trust, Herts Young Homeless. DENS and One YMCA spoke about the incredible difference that the funds raised at the event would make in Watford and nearby towns. We even got to hear from a young person who had been homeless and supported by one of the local charities.

Throughout the night we spoke to a few participants and heard about their experience of sleeping outdoors for the first time and some of the reasons for taking part:

“I live in Croxley and it’s nice to support local organisations and local causes. It feels like you are more tethered to the communities that are receiving the benefit.” Grace

“We’re doing this for one night – some people have to do this every day.” Mark

“One day I saw a homeless person and I felt bad … I decided I wanted to do something, but I didn’t know what, and then later my dad told me about the Sleep Out and I instantly said yes. I wanted to raise money, not just to give it.” a participant, age 10

“Concrete sucks the heat out of your body and the sounds are so disorientating, they take on a whole different quality when you’re in that situation - and we’re in a safe environment.” Ian, New Hope’s Cultivate manager

So far it looks like over £28,000 was raised on the night but that total may still increase as more sponsorship comes in. You could always sponsor Ian for his night outside if you wanted to add your support https://watfordfccsetrust.enthuse.com/pf/ian-bond

Photos by John Griffith, www.socialvideouk.com

Photos by Christopher James Hall Foundation, www.cjhf.org.uk