On Friday, 28th February 2025, through to Saturday, 1st March, Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust will be partnering with local charities One YMCA, DENS, Herts Young Homeless, and New Hope once again to raise awareness about homelessness in Watford and nearby areas while generating crucial funds to combat this pressing issue.

Foxtons Estate Agents, who deal in sales and short and long term lets, are demonstrating their commitment to making a difference to communities through their sponsorship of this incredible event.

‘Imagine were proud to be headline sponsors of the very first Stadium Sleep Out last year, and following our recent acquisition by Foxtons, it’s great to see their commitment to the Watford community, by continuing that support for several fantastic local charities’ – Glenn Smith, Foxtons.

The charities are delighted that local businesses are supporting the Stadium Sleep Out with additional sponsorship from Warner Bros, Morgan Sindall and Topgolf. Gather & Gather will be providing food for all the participants and West Herts Hospital NHS are to cover the cost of car parking for participants.

The Sleep Out will take place at Watford FC’s iconic Vicarage Road Stadium, offering a rare and exciting chance to experience the stadium after the matchday crowds have gone home. Participants will trade the comfort of their beds for sleeping bags, spending the night in the Rookery Stand with a view of the pitch.
This unique event will include appearances by special guests and ambassadors from the participating charities, who will share insights and raise awareness about homelessness. Attendees can also look forward to various activities, food and refreshments throughout the evening.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting the Stadium Sleep Out once again, particularly after such a fantastic event last year, that we know has made a big difference to the lives of local people and tackling homelessness. Everyone knows the family and community values built within Watford FC, so there is no better place to bring people and organisations together for this worthwhile cause.” Leah Crocket, Events & Marketing Officer for Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust

All proceeds from the Stadium Sleep Out will be evenly distributed among the five participating charities.

Nearly 300 people took part in the inaugural event last year, including Watford’s Mayor, Peter Taylor, who said: “I am looking forward to taking part in this year’s Stadium Sleep Out at Vicarage Road Stadium, especially after last year’s successful event. Thank you to all the fantastic local charities whose tireless efforts are helping those facing or experiencing homelessness. Last year, a grand total of £70,000 was raised for these charities and the important work they do. Together, I hope we can raise even more money for this worthwhile cause this year.”

Participants’ feedback on what they liked about the event included:
“My youth group were buzzing and absolutely loved it – thank you!”
“The opportunity to support a very worthwhile cause and get friends talking about homelessness.”
“I took a group of Scouts and they loved being in the stadium. They also enjoyed the food and the service was good.”
“All of it! Registering on the night was good, food, entertainment, speakers were great. Loved the scarf for raising donations – a great incentive! . Great sense of community and fundraising process was simple.”

If you would like to get involved in this incredible event, or for details of event sponsorship opportunities, please email leah.crocket@watfordfc.com