Oaklands College Hosts The St Albans Sleepout 2025: A Night of Awareness and Community Spirit

On Friday night, Oaklands College was proud to once again host The St Albans Sleepout, a powerful annual event organised by Herts Young Homeless to raise awareness and vital funds to combat homelessness across Hertfordshire.

The event brought together a wide cross-section of the local community — from the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire to scouts, cadets, families, youth groups, couples and corporate teams — all uniting for one important cause: to shine a light on the devastating issue of homelessness on our doorstep.

Despite the drizzle and cold, participants braved a night sleeping outdoors on the St Albans campus grounds, reflecting on the daily challenges faced by those without a safe place to call home. Many spoke of how humbling it was to take part, realising the privilege of returning to warmth, food, and comfort the following morning.

A highlight of the evening was hearing from Levi, a young person supported by the charity, who courageously shared his story of family breakdown and rebuilding his life with the help of the charity. His experience served as a moving reminder of the life-changing impact that community support and early intervention can have.

The event included creative activities and live music to bring the community together, while the Rapid Relief Team served a much-needed breakfast to those who completed the Sleepout. The event was further supported by Mulalley, The Housing Network, McGowan Group, St John Ambulance, and Pearldrop Video Production, whose generosity and involvement helped make the evening a success.

The funds raised from the event will go directly towards supporting young people in crisis, helping them to find stable accommodation and receive the guidance they need to move forward positively.

Oaklands College extends heartfelt thanks to all the organisers, supporters, and participants who took part in The St Albans Sleepout 2025, demonstrating the power of community action and compassion in making a real difference.