MACS Sleep Out 2025- See the Person

MACS’ vision is simple but powerful: an end to youth homelessness in Northern Ireland.

We are Northern Ireland's only youth-specific homelessness charity, focusing on young people aged 16–25. Early intervention is key – helping prevent and break the cycle of homelessness and the risks that come with it.

At MACS we provide intensive, long-term support. Each young person can receive up to two years of services, giving them the time and space to build resilience, find stability, and create a brighter future. With the right support, young people can and do move on to independent living, education, work, and community life.

Every year, MACS provides a home and/or wraparound support to almost 700 young people across Northern Ireland. This includes housing, help with education, training and careers, wellbeing and mental health support, and essential life skills such as budgeting, cooking and managing a home.

But in today’s climate of funding cuts, a housing crisis and rising living costs, fundraising has become vital. That’s why events like Sleep Out matter more than ever.

This year’s theme is “See the Person” – a reminder that behind every statistic is an individual with hopes, strengths and potential. By taking part, you’re standing in solidarity with young people experiencing homelessness and saying: we see you, we believe in you, and we’re with you.

If you can’t join us on the night, why not plan your own Sleep Out? Email [email protected] for a starter guide.

Every single person taking part will help change young lives in Northern Ireland.

FAQs

What are my transport/parking options?

Access to Banana Block is via the entrance on Newtownards Road. Parking is not permitted on the cobblestones at Portview, but there is free on-street parking on Newtownards Road from 6pm–8am. Connswater Shopping Centre is also a short walk away.

Who can take part?

You can take part individually or as part of a group. If you have a medical condition that may affect your ability to participate, please consult your GP beforehand.

Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times (maximum 3 children per adult). Every participant will be asked to sign a photo consent and release form on the night. Adults must sign for under-18s. If you/your child do not wish to be photographed, please email [email protected] in advance.

What should I bring?

• Sleeping bag, pillow and roll mat

• Cardboard or extra insulation for under your mat

• Warm clothing – double up on socks and gloves!

• No glass bottles.

• Light snacks and breakfast will be provided as part of your registration fee.

• Alcohol is not permitted.

We recommend having a proper meal before arrival.

Entertainment runs from 7–11pm, then we’ll bed down together (or try to!).

Noise restrictions

Sleep Out is a social event, but we ask everyone to respect a strict quiet policy after 11pm. Anyone causing disruption may be asked to leave the site.

Questions?

Contact us anytime at [email protected].

🙌 Thank you for helping us mark 35 years of MACS by standing with young people. Together, we can see the person and work towards ending youth homelessness in Northern Ireland.

Media enquiries [email protected]