Heartbreaking Statistics Drive Urgent Call for Eden Project Sleep Out 2025

The Eden Project is calling on people to sign up for its annual Sleep Out this November, as new figures reveal a devastating rise in homelessness across the UK.

Taking place on Thursday 13th November, Sleep Out invites participants to brave the cold and sleep beneath the canopy of the Link Building between the world-famous Biomes. The overnight event raises vital funds and awareness for homelessness charities The Amber Foundation and St Petrocs, giving attendees a small glimpse of what it’s like to sleep rough on a cold November night.

Find out more and sign up here.

A night of reflection and purpose

Throughout the evening, participants will be entertained with live music and stories from people affected by homelessness. Among the performers will be Rhys Wynne-Jones, known as The Nightchurch Pianist, who was recently named The Pride of Britain Awards 2025 South West Fundraiser of the Year.

Rhys, who was supported by St Petrocs’ winter services, has raised more than £20,000 through his sold-out concerts and now uses his musical talent to help others.

Eden Project chefs will also lead cookery workshops, and breakfast will be provided in the morning. Participants are asked to bring their own sleeping bags.

Alarming rise in homelessness

The event comes as shocking new statistics from The Museum of Homelessness reveal that 1,611 people died while homeless in the UK last year, the highest number ever recorded.

In addition, rough sleeping in England rose by 20%, while the number of people living in temporary accommodation across the UK also reached record levels.

The picture in the South West is particularly bleak. Figures from The Amber Foundation and St Petrocs show that 13,800 young people aged 16 to 24 presented themselves to local authorities as homeless or at risk between 2023 and 2024 — a 58% increase on the previous year and the highest rate in the country. These numbers exclude those who did not seek help.

Charities making a difference

Despite the grim statistics, both charities continue to make a tangible impact.

In 2024/25, 184 young people left The Amber Foundation, with 70% moving into sustainable accommodation. Of those, 40% secured permanent employment, 8% entered education or training, and 22% achieved major goals such as a Level 2 professional qualification.

Meanwhile, St Petrocs supported 1,402 people last year, helping 537 out of homelessness altogether. During the winter, the charity provided emergency accommodation for 107 people, with 91% not returning to sleeping rough. Its winter emergency accommodation service will run again this year.

A decade of solidarity

Last year’s Eden Project Sleep Out saw around 90 participants raise over £17,000 for the two charities. Since the event began, hundreds have taken part, raising more than £100,000 to support those facing homelessness.

Dan James, the Eden Project’s Development Director, said:

“Every year we are amazed and inspired by the conversations and experiences we share at the Eden Project Sleep Out. It is always an incredible evening and is a chance to make a real difference to those less fortunate than ourselves.

“The statistics released by The Museum of Homelessness are truly heart-breaking and highlight why the work from The Amber Foundation and St Petrocs are needed now, more than ever before. We’re proud to support these incredible charities and look forward to welcoming this year’s participants to another memorable event.”

Those interested in taking part can find full details and register for the event via the Eden Project website