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Bishop's Missioner, Becky Dyball, is braving an intentionally uncomfortable night at A Night in the Nave, the 2026 Sleep Out hosted by Light Project Peterborough inside the historic Peterborough Cathedral. Her choice to step into the cold is a thoughtful act of solidarity—an invitation to reflect, to care, and to support those in our city who face true hardship each day.
Light Project Peterborough’s “A Night in the Nave,” taking place on Thursday 19 March 2026, offers participants a small glimpse of what homelessness can feel like by sleeping in the Cathedral’s Nave or the Cloisters courtyard, experiencing the cold and uncertainty that many endure nightly. The event is expected to be the charity’s biggest fundraising effort to date, providing vital support for people in real need and contributing to the upkeep of one of the city’s most cherished landmarks.
Last year’s Sleep Out attracted more than 50 participants and raised £20,000, and hopes are high that this year even more people will respond with compassion and commitment. Participants will receive simple food and drink mirroring what is offered daily at the Garden House—the city’s homeless hub where over 200 people seek help each month—and will hear stories from individuals with lived experience of homelessness.
By choosing to participate, Becky joins a community of people who are willing to step outside their comfort to raise awareness and practical support. This is not an attempt to replicate homelessness, but rather to offer a glimpse into its challenges while drawing people together in prayerful thought and generous action.
Approaching the experience Becky says ‘Now, let me be honest. I really dislike being cold. The idea of sleeping cold with just the basics fills me with a healthy amount of trepidation! This is not my natural habitat, but I I’m doing it because Light Project Peterborough is Bishop Debbie's Charity for 2026 and because it is so much more than a “homeless charity.”’
‘Through The Garden House, outreach work, health support, advocacy, and partnership across the city, they walk alongside people who are facing homelessness, addiction, mental health struggles, isolation and deep disadvantage. It’s practical help, yes of course but it’s also dignity, welcome and what I can only describe as visible love.’
All funds raised will be split between Light Project Peterborough and Peterborough Cathedral, supporting both frontline work with vulnerable residents and the care of a place that has held centuries of hope, witness, and welcome.
Becky’s willingness to endure the cold—and to invite others to join her in uplifting those who feel forgotten—speaks deeply of compassion lived out. Her efforts encourage us to reflect on our shared responsibility to help ensure that everyone in our city has a place of safety and dignity.
For those wishing to support Becky, or learn more about the work of Light Project Peterborough. see:
Supporting Becky in her fundraising