The Big Chorley FC Sleepout: Meet some of the kind-hearted partcipants hoping to make a difference
The Big Sleep Out will take place this Friday when temperatures are expected to plummet.
Staff at SVP Chorley Buddies will brave a cold night outdoors as they take part in The Big Chorley Sleepout 2026 to help raise vital funds for local people experiencing poverty.
Taking place on Friday at Victory Park, the sleepout will see participants give up the comfort of their beds for a night to raise awareness of homelessness and the challenges faced by people without a safe place to sleep.
Funds raised will support three local organisations - Chorley FC Community Foundation, Let's Make a Difference and SVP Chorley Buddies, helping them continue their work supporting people in the Chorley community.
SVP Chorley Buddies is a community support project that works to tackle food and financial poverty and reduce social isolation by providing practical help and a welcoming place within the community.
Its services include Good Food Clubs, befriending, shopping and medicine collection support, activities and social gatherings.
For people experiencing loneliness or financial hardship, this support can make a significant difference, helping them feel connected and part of their local community.
Majella Hunt, centre manager at SVP Chorley Buddies said: “We're down at Chorley FC Football Club in preparation for the Big Sleepout taking place this Friday 13th of November at the football club itself.
“We're working with the Chorley FC Community Foundation, and Let's Make a Difference charity.
“It's gonna be very cold this weekend. Down to 1 degree on Friday night. It is going to be a difficult evening but we're doing it to help support others in our community.”
The Big Chorley Sleepout offers an opportunity for local people to come together and support organisations working directly with those who need help most.
Participants are encouraged to take part and raise funds to help these services continue making a difference across Chorley.
The event has a fundraising target of £15,000, with registration costing £5 per participant.
For more information or to register visit: SVP Chorley Buddies is fundraising for ChorleyFC Community Foundation
Another person taking part is newly appointed trustee of Chorley FC Community Foundations Lee Houghton who will be joined by his daughter India to help raise funds for people facing hardship.
Lee said: “One night on cold ground is nothing compared with what some people in our town face every night, and that is exactly why we are doing it.
“I coach my son's football team every weekend, so I see what a club can do for young people and families.
“The Foundation takes that further, into parts of Chorley most of us never see. I spend my working life helping big organisations get things done.
“If any of that helps the Foundation reach more people, I cannot think of a better use for it.”
To sponsor Lee and India click here
The Big Chorley Sleepout is sponsored by Aspect Mortgages and Scope Fire & Security.
Registration opens at 7pm on Friday.