TV presenter Hamilton White spent a night sleeping outdoors this weekend as part of a nationwide effort to support homeless veterans.
Hamilton braved the chilly weather to highlight a growing and often overlooked homelessness crisis affecting veterans.
White, known for Lost Relics of the Knights Templar, and his magazine editor friend Andy Devaney took part in The Great Tommy Sleep Out 2026, a fundraising challenge aimed at raising awareness and money for former servicemen and women facing homelessness across the UK.
The initiative asked participants to give up basic comforts for a single night, swapping warm homes and routines for sleeping bags, cold ground and exposure to the elements.
Organisers stressed the event was not intended to replicate the reality of homelessness, but to prompt reflection and action.
Behind the campaign lay what supporters described as a “stubborn and uncomfortable truth” that many veterans continued to struggle with housing instability, mental health issues and isolation after leaving the armed forces.
While public displays of gratitude towards the military remained strong, campaigners argued that long-term support often fell short once formal ceremonies and commemorations passed.
The Great Tommy Sleep Out was deliberately simple. Participants slept outside for one night and used the experience to encourage donations and discussion.
Supporters said that simplicity was its strength, cutting through what they saw as performative gestures and focusing instead on practical help.
For veterans experiencing homelessness, organisers emphasised that issues such as safe housing, access to mental health care and employment opportunities were immediate and essential, not abstract concerns.
Funds raised supported the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE), a charity working to provide stability, housing pathways, employment support and community networks for former service personnel.
The pairing of White and Devaney reflected two different approaches to storytelling, one from the world of television adventure, the other from publishing, united by a shared cause.
The pair, joined by author and actor Craig Leonard, slept rough in Low Habberley, just outside Kidderminster.
Sustain Health Magazine’s Andy Devaney, who was joined by his sons Daniel, 24, and Oliver, 13, said:
“The Great Tommy Sleep Out 2026 was a reminder that the people who have served this country should never be left to face homelessness alone. Taking part this weekend with Hamilton White was about doing something practical, however small, to help raise awareness and funds for veterans who need real support, real housing and real hope.”
Charities involved in the initiative said homelessness among veterans was rarely just about the absence of shelter. Many former service personnel also faced a loss of identity, disrupted support networks and difficulties transitioning to civilian life. RBVE’s work focused on rebuilding those foundations, not only providing accommodation, but restoring confidence, connection and long-term stability.
Organisers urged the public to contribute where possible, either through donations or by sharing the campaign.
Donations to Andy Devaney’s fundraising campaign could be made online:
https://socialsync.app/fundraiser/cr-4pvwm68d50ko9