A TEAM from the Hampshire-based pioneers of the tea trade Twinings will be braving the cold as they take part in a Salisbury charity’s efforts to help break the cycle of homelessness.

ALABARÉ BIG Sleep will see 200 supporters gather at Stonehenge to sleep under the stars on November 14 to raise funds and awareness of what ALABARÉ is doing to break the cycle of veterans’ homelessness.

The charity’s Homes for Veterans programme offers supported living for former military personnel in several locations across the South West of England and Wales.

Michelle Woods from Twinings in Andover is leading their team at the BIG Sleep Stonehenge.

She said: “We’re doing this not just for the experience, but to stand in solidarity with people who face the harsh reality of homelessness every night.

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“ALABARÉ provides vital support to veterans, young people, and vulnerable adults who are at risk of homelessness.

“Being a veteran myself, it’s a cause that is close to my heart, and I know firsthand that the transition from military to civilian life has its challenges.

“Being there for ALABARÉ, we are committed to raising awareness and funds to help the charity continue its incredible work.

“We know one night out in the cold doesn’t compare to the daily struggle many are facing, but it’s our way of saying: we see you, we care, and we want to help.”

The group have already raised more than £1,500 for ALABARÉ in a matter of days. To support their efforts, visit their JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/twiningsbigsleepout?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

ALABARÉ’s James Tomlinson said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome the team from Twinings to join us for the BIG Sleep at Stonehenge.

“We’re grateful for their acts of kindness towards veterans facing homelessness and for championing a charity that supports their local community.

“We also recognise how powerful a cup of tea can be in bringing people together, sharing experiences, and as a catalyst to important conversations.

“It’s a commonly used practice by colleagues within our services to help clients have that ‘home comfort’, which means they’re more likely to open up about the support they need.

“A brew can be a moment of calm, a chance to reset, a reassurance in a crisis, or even a celebration and with Twinings, we’re delighted to discover the art of tea, while also breaking the cycle of homelessness.”

Join the Twinings team and sleep out to help out

Places at the BIG Sleep Stonehenge are limited, with supporters asked to register for their space now to avoid disappointment.

ALABARÉ will provide bivvy bags for all those taking part at the monument’s visitor centre, with participants asked to bring their own kitbag of a sleeping bag, roll mats, and plenty of warm clothing.

Those taking part will get the chance to visit the stone circle at sundown for a stargazing event with the Cranborne Chase National Landscape Team, with the top fundraisers also taking part in an exclusive sunrise experience.

Find out more and secure a place at https://alabare.co.uk/events/the-big-sleep-stonehenge–wiltshire/