The Bethany Big Sleep Out, which will be held outside the Edinburgh City Chambers and the Glasgow City Chambers, has raised over £400,000 in the past 18 years, with more than 2,000 participants sleeping out to raise much needed funds and awareness.

100% of all proceeds go directly to Bethany’s work to support almost 7,000 homeless and vulnerable people across Scotland. This includes provision of outreach, recovery work, drop-in support, befriending and professional support to thousands of people across Scotland.

On the night, participants will arrive for 10pm where they will be welcomed with a presentation on preparing for the night and a Shelter Building Competition and music before heading off to sleep.

Since 2002, sleep out participants have been involved in 50 Sleep Outs across nine locations in Scotland to raise money for Bethany’s life-saving work. While it is not going to be the best night’s sleep people have, spirits are sure to be high with warm drinks and biscuits available to participants throughout the cold night and a hot BBQ breakfast generously provided by the Rapid Relief Team UK.

Events and churches team lead, Mairead Macleod, said: “With this year marking Bethany’s 51st Sleep Out event, we’re very excited to see lots of supporters already signing up to take part. The Bethany Big Sleep Out is as much about raising awareness of the crisis of homelessness as it is about raising money to support Bethany’s work.

“The experience will be challenging, but it is nothing compared to what those who have to sleep rough have to go through every night.”

Alasdair Bennett, chief executive at Bethany Christian Trust, said: “The Big Bethany Sleep Out is our biggest event of the year and raises vital funds for our cause. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show kindness and do something amazing for people who are suffering homelessness and all the challenges that it brings.

“Whether you get your friends and family together or choose to go it alone, join us at our Glasgow or Edinburgh Sleep Out as we work towards ending homelessness, one person at a time.”