Leeds Rhinos Foundation launches virtual Leeds Big Sleep In fundraiser

A record 250 people braved the cold for last year's Leeds Big Sleep at Emerald Headingley Stadium.

Players and staff from Leeds Rhinos joined together with supporters and volunteers to sleep at the stadium for the night to raise funds and awareness.

They raised more than £56,000, which was shared between organisers Leeds Rhinos Foundation, St Gemma’s Hospice and city homelessness charity St George’s Crypt.

Covid restrictions mean that the next big sleep - on Friday February 5 2021 - will be a virtual event called the Leeds Big Sleep In.

Fans are encouraged to get involved from home by giving up a night of comfort in their bed and sleeping in one the most unusual, uncomfortable places they can find.

Whether it’s sleeping on the kitchen floor, camping out in the garden or even spending the night tucked up in the garage, supporters are encouraged to be creative in where they choose to sleep.

The only requirement is that participants must follow appropriate social distancing measures and the latest government guidelines.

Gareth Cook, head of community and engagement for Leeds Rhinos Foundation, said: “Despite the current restrictions, we are delighted to still be able to run the Leeds Big Sleep event, albeit with a twist.

“The impact of the coronavirus pandemic means that the work of charities to raise funds and support our city’s most vulnerable people has never been more needed.

"There’s no age limit this year, so the whole family can get involved to support this important cause.

“We want people to be as creative as they can with where they sleep and we’re looking forward to everyone joining us on February 5 for this virtual sleepout with our wonderful partners at St Georges Crypt and St Gemma's Hospice.”

Chris Fields, chief executive officer of St George's Crypt, said: “It is great to see the Leeds Big Sleep in its fourth year. It has been incredibly successful and has really shown the generosity that businesses and the people of Leeds have for three local charities supporting vulnerable people; long may it continue.”

Gail Chapman, head of fundraising at St Gemma’s Hospice, said: “The Leeds Big Sleep In is a great idea to raise funds for the three charities whilst we have restrictions on how we can fundraise.

"The hospice is very proud to work alongside both St George’s Crypt and Leeds Rhinos Foundation, who are all working hard to help people in need throughout our city.”

All proceeds from the Leeds Big Sleep In will be split equally between Leeds Rhinos Foundation, St George’s Crypt and St Gemma’s Hospice and all fundraisers will receive a limited-edition pin badge.

Virtual entertainment will be broadcast throughout the evening and selfies can be shared on social media using the hashtag #LeedsBigSleepIn.

To register for the Leeds Big Sleep In, g o to http://bit.ly/LeedsBigSleepIn.

A £5 registration fee applies.