Big Give 2025 Christmas Challenge: Why your support helps change lives
Homelessness is rising at an alarming rate across the UK. Shelter reports a 17% increase in people living in temporary accommodation and a 27% rise in rough sleeping over the past year. Decades of underinvestment in social housing have left thousands without a safe, stable place to call home.
In 2024, one in 160 people were homeless on any given night.
But in many of the cities where our choirs run, the reality is even starker:
1 in 30 people in Hackney are experiencing homelessness
1 in 62 in Birmingham
1 in 77 in Brighton & Hove
Behind every statistic is a person navigating unimaginable challenges. Without secure housing, it becomes harder to find work, maintain health, or hold onto relationships. And once someone becomes homeless, the isolation and uncertainty often deepen the very issues that caused it. Breaking that cycle is incredibly tough without support.
That’s where our choirs can make a difference.
Where music becomes a lifeline
Each week, our choirs offer more than a chance to sing. They create connection, routine, friendship, confidence, moments to shine, and hope. It’s a space where people who’ve been overlooked for too long can feel seen, valued, and part of something joyful.
Singing together, sharing a hot meal, stepping into the spotlight - these simple moments help people rebuild the confidence they need to face life’s challenges, from securing stable housing to finding work. And time and again, we see music spark transformation.
Our members say it best
“I don’t know where I’d be without music. It’s my passion, my outlet. It takes me away from life's struggles.”- Gabriel
“Being a member of CWNN has given me a sense of belonging. It’s boosted my confidence and helped me stay in a healthier mindset- especially during the cold, gloomy winter months.” - Andre
“Choir gives me inspiration, happiness, something to look forward to every week… And most importantly, singing brings me sanity.” - Dee
These voices remind us why our work matters - and why your support truly changes lives.
Double your impact this Christmas
This year, we’re taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, where every donation is matched. That means your gift goes twice as far, helping more people experiencing homelessness access the life-changing community of choir.
A £20 donation becomes £40.
A £50 donation becomes £100.
And the impact becomes life changing.
How you can help:
Donate today through the Big Give and double your impact - help more people rebuild confidence and find connection through music.
Join us at a Christmas gig - experience the magic of our legendary festive performances and see the joy our choirs create first hand.
