YMCA Cheltenham appeals to local community to join record-breaking Sleep Easy event

• Charity striving to make SLEEP EASY 2026 the biggest in their history to mark 170th year 
• A record 80 school children will be designing and building cardboard shelters  
• Calling local community and businesses to get involved  to fundraise 

31 March, Gloucestershire: YMCA Cheltenham is calling on the local community to sign up to their unique SLEEP EASY 2026 challenge to make this year’s event the biggest in their history, as the organisation celebrates their 170th anniversary.  

Taking place on Friday 24 April, the SLEEP EASY is the charity’s annual fundraising challenge, inviting participants to give up their warm beds for one night and experience the reality of sleeping on the streets.

The event will be held on the grounds of the YMCA Cheltenham Sports Centre, where those taking part will build their own cardboard shelters before settling in for the night. Individuals, families and workplaces are encouraged to take part, helping to raise funds and awareness to support YMCA Cheltenham’s critical work with society’s most vulnerable people.

Since 2010, YMCA SLEEP EASY has brought together more than 8000 people to raise over £1.7 million, enabling life-changing services, from housing for those experiencing homelessness to family support and community fitness programmes.  

John Ingles, Head of Housing at YMCA Cheltenham, said: “Our annual SLEEP EASY event is one of the most important nights of the year for our organisation. It brings our community together in a powerful show of compassion and solidarity for those facing homelessness.

“There are still opportunities for local businesses to get involved in the event whether that’s to sponsor or to take part, or both. It’s a great way for companies and individuals to raise awareness, amplify fundraising and demonstrate their commitment to tackling homelessness in their community.” 

Faye Dewhurst, a staff participant who first took part in the YMCA Cheltenham SLEEP EASY challenge in 2025, added: “Initially, I was nervous about the cold and unsure if I could manage it, but the event was well-organised, and the team was incredibly supportive. I felt a great sense of achievement come the morning. However, it was also a powerful reminder that this is the reality for many people. I know how much the money raised will help in supporting those facing homelessness in our community.” 

The Big Shelter Build 

The morning of the event marks the return of the Big Shelter Build, where 80 Year Five and Six pupils from Gloucestershire schools and a homeschooling group team up with local construction firms to design and build cardboard shelters for YMCA staff. Exclusive to the charity, the initiative sees industry professionals guiding children to learn basic building principles while exploring the issue of homelessness through creativity, teamwork and problem solving - an initiative widely praised for its impact by teachers and parents. 

Melody, age 9, who took part in the Big Shelter Build and SLEEP EASY last year, says: "I really loved coming to the event as not everyone has somewhere to sleep and I want to help - I'm looking forward to sleeping outside again this year" 

John adds: “We have a record number of school children and construction companies taking part in this year’s Big Shelter Build , and we aim to make 2026 the biggest SLEEP EASY yet as the charity reaches its 170th year.  

“While it’s a milestone that we’re incredibly proud of, it’s also a reminder of how vital our services are. By taking part in the SLEEP EASY, participants are not only raising funds, they’re showing their support for those who need hope, safety and support right now.” 

To sign up to take part or to find out more about the SLEEP EASY 2026, visit https://ymcacheltenham.com/sleep-easy/. Registrations close on Friday, 17 April

Ends

Editors notes

Notes to Editor  

Click HERE to view YMCA Cheltenham’s virtual newsroom, where you will find:   

• Images of the SLEEP EASY 2025 
• Images of the Big Shelter Build 2025  
• A copy of this news release  
• The YMCA Cheltenham logo  

For media enquiries, please contact:   

 Olivia Furniss or Verity Blake at HeadOn PR:   

T: 07502 438 842   

E: ymcacheltenham@headonpr.co.uk  

About YMCA Cheltenham:  

YMCA Cheltenham’s supports people and communities across Gloucestershire, with a mission to enable people to develop their full potential in mind, body, and spirit.  

Rooted in Christian values, the charity is committed to creating supportive, inclusive, and energising communities – places where families and individuals of all backgrounds can truly belong, contribute, and thrive.  

Whether it’s offering a safe home, providing family support services, promoting physical and mental wellbeing, and nurturing community spirit, YMCA Cheltenham exists to help individuals build strong foundations for a rewarding life. 

In 2025, the charity provided accommodation for 278 children and young people, housing 149 families who would otherwise have been homeless.