The Big Sleep Out – Pauls Story

There was a time when every night was a Big Sleep Out—though, let’s be honest, it was less “under the stars” and more “under a motorway bridge in Chorley.” It’s crazy to think that was nearly two years ago. Back then, life was just about surviving—cold, hungry, and lost. But today? I’m two years sober and no longer homeless! To celebrate, I’m doing something a little bit mad: sleeping out for a full week in different towns and cities across Yorkshire and Lancashire. Not because I have to, but because I choose to—because I want to show people just how much life can change when you don’t give up.

I remember the day everything changed like it was yesterday. I was in a dark place, grieving the loss of my best mate to cancer. Before he died, he made me promise to sort my life out. He told me, "You're a good man, and you deserve a good life." I wasn’t sure I believed him, but something in me wasn’t ready to give up. I’d been trying to cut down on drinking, hanging onto whatever scraps of control I had left.

Then one day, I met a street pastor in Chorley. We got talking, he prayed for me, and something just clicked. I had the number for a rehab saved in my phone and the pull to call was so strong, I couldn’t ignore it. For the first time in years, I felt this crazy thing called hope—like maybe, just maybe, things really could be different. I rang them and they said they could get me in. The catch? I had to wait eight days. Now, eight days might not sound like much, butwhen you’re teetering on the edge of a decision that could change your life, it’s an eternity. I knew if I went back to my old ways, I’d never make it. So, I clung to my faith with everything I had. I threw myself into church, made smart choices about who I spent time with and kept reminding myself: if nothing changes, then nothing will change.

Those eight days were tough, but I made it. And when I walked through those rehab doors, I was ready. Through the 12-step program and life recovery, I completely turned my life around. And I’ll tell you this—Living Recovery set me free! But the real hero in my story? Jesus. Through Him, I’ve been born again into a life overflowing with goodness. He’s given me peace, purpose and a future I never thought possible.

A while ago, I had a dream—one of those “God is definitely speaking to me” moments. He gave me a vision to do this sleep out, to show people that perseverance does pay off. That no matter how deep the pit, there’s always a way out—if you’re willing to take that first step. All it takes is commitment—to yourself and to God.

One of the biggest blessings in my life now is my fiancée. She is truly a gift from God. The faith and belief she has in me make such a huge difference in my journey. She encourages me daily to overcome my fears and self-doubt so that I can better do God’s will. She reminds me that I am capable, that I am called and that God’s plans for me are bigger than I could ever imagine. Having someone believe in you like that—it changes everything.

I’ve also been unbelievably blessed to find a church that has stood by me, and I just want to say a massive thank you to them. I don’t know where I’d be without their support. And a big shout out to Nigel and the team in Accrington and Blackburn—you guys are incredible, and I’m beyond grateful to be part of the work we do together.

Today, I’m a walking, talking testimony that you can go from homelessness and despair to a life that’s full of faith, freedom, and hope. And let me tell you, the sweet serenity I have every single day comes from Jesus. So here’s to two years clean. Here’s to the Big Sleep Out. And here’s to the next chapter—because if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that with God leading the way, the best is yet to come.

Donate to Paul's sleep out here.