On the night of 31 March 2025, staff from Chelsea Parkfields and Leadership Trust stepped outside their comfort zones – quite literally – by joining the Great Tommy Sleep Out, an annual initiative led by Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI). The event raises awareness and vital funds for homeless veterans across the United Kingdom.
With temperatures dropping to a brisk 3°C in the UK countryside, colleagues traded the comfort of their beds for sleeping bags, joining thousands across the country in solidarity with homeless veterans. Their efforts are a testament to Chelsea Group’s long-standing support of the veteran community and its commitment to meaningful, hands-on participation in social impact initiatives.
Raising awareness and funds for homeless veterans
While the Great Tommy Sleep Out is not intended to imitate the hardships of rough sleeping, it offers a glimpse into the discomfort and vulnerability many veterans face when they don’t have secure accommodation. In 2024, the initiative raised over £1.2 million for RBLI’s work – including safe housing and tailored support services. But demand continues to grow. In many areas of the UK, veteran homelessness is on the rise – with charities under pressure to provide support faster and more broadly.
At the time of writing, the Chelsea Parkfields and Leadership Trust teams have already raised almost £1,800 for the cause, with donations still open. Every pound goes directly toward providing safe housing, rehabilitation programmes, and the kind of consistent support many veterans struggle to access through public services alone.
Participants can proudly sport the I Completed the Great Tommy Sleep Out for RBLI post on their socials.
A night of reflection and shared purpose
The sleep out took place on the grounds of Chelsea Parkfields, where participants gathered around a fire they built before settling in for a night outdoors.
“Once the sun set and the last logs on the fire burnt out, reality hit and the true extent of a night in the elements sank in,” shared Andy Jones, Leadership Trust’s Facilities Manager. “The night under canvas was cold, and unfamiliar noises from the wildlife and passing vehicles kept most personnel awake – so our reflection on those less fortunate veterans sleeping rough remained at the forefront of everyone’s mind.”
The experience served as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those who have risked so much in service of their country, and why initiatives like this are so crucial.
Teams from Chelsea Parkfields and Leadership Trust setting up for a night outside to support the Great Tommy Sleep Out.
Why supporting veterans is at the heart of Chelsea Group
Chelsea Group’s commitment to the veteran community is more than symbolic – it is foundational. With roots in the British special forces, the Group has always maintained a deep connection to those who serve.
When Lord Westbury founded Hart Security in 1999 after completing his military service, it laid the groundwork for a broader mission: to create meaningful opportunities for those who’ve served, and to continue recognising their value long after uniform is retired.
Over the years, Chelsea Group has championed veteran-led initiatives and adventurous feats that embody resilience and leadership. In 2019, Hart International signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise to support veterans and their transition from active duty to civilian life. Other initiatives have included sponsoring Ian Rivers’ solo row across the Atlantic, helping ex-service personnel reach the summit of Everest alongside 65 Degrees North, and supporting ex-Commando, Damien Thomlinson, in his training for the Paralympics. All of these initiatives – and others – are designed to raise awareness around the challenges veterans face and the potential they possess when given the right support.
Chelsea Group sponsored Brendan Davies, a Royal Marines veteran, through Enigma Alliance and their relationship with 65 Degrees North. Brendan and his team successfully summited Mount Everest in May 2019.
How you can help
Chelsea Group’s participation in the Great Tommy Sleep Out is part of a broader call to action. The Group encourages others – individuals and organisations alike – to get involved, whether through donations, raising awareness, or simply by starting conversations around veteran welfare.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps RBLI to continue providing life-changing services to those who have given so much. You can make your donation through the following links:
Support the Great Tommy Sleep Out with Leadership Trust
Support the Great Tommy Sleep Out with Chelsea Parkfields
Making a tangible difference
Chelsea Group’s support of the Great Tommy Sleep Out reflects its enduring commitment to social responsibility and its belief that veterans deserve dignity, opportunity, and respect.
The success of this year’s campaign is a proud moment for Chelsea Parkfields, Leadership Trust, and the broader Chelsea Group community – and a reminder that together, we can make a real difference.
