Fundraisers to sleep rough in derelict RAF buildings at Swansea Airport for homeless veterans

Led by ex-Territorial Army member Phil Barrow, a group of fundraisers will spend two nights sleeping rough in the former RAF squadron buildings at Swansea Airport on 6–7 March 2026.

The event is part of The Great Tommy Sleep Out, a national campaign run by the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) to raise funds and awareness for veterans facing homelessness.

The team will camp in the exposed remains of the old RAF Fairwood Common buildings, which are now open to the elements and offer little protection from the wind and rain.

Phil Barrow in WWII period uniform at the 2024 Great Tommy Sleep Out at Oxwich Point abandoned radar station. Phil will lead this year’s sleep-out at Swansea Airport on 6-7 March.

This will be Phil’s third year taking part in the challenge. “I knew people who had served and ended up sleeping rough,” he said. “I wanted to do my little part to support veterans who’ve fallen on hard times.”

Between the two sleep-out nights, on Saturday 7 March, the group will also display WWII period uniforms, equipment, and military vehicles at Swansea Airport. Some participants will be living in full period kit throughout the weekend, creating a powerful visual link between the site’s history and the challenges some veterans face today.

Funds raised will support RBVE’s work providing safe housing, mental health support, and pathways back to independence for veterans. The group’s fundraising page can be found here.

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