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In line with the relevant Government and Homeless Link guidance, North Somerset Council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) for rough sleepers in anticipation of the cold snap forecast this week.
Freezing temperatures are expected for the next few days after the Met Office issued an amber Cold-Health Alert (CHA) for the south west of England until noon on Friday 12 January.
This protocol ensures that the council takes the necessary steps to make sure all known rough sleepers can access shelter if it is believed they are at risk due to sleeping rough during severe or extended cold weather.
The council’s Rough Sleeper Co-ordinator and Outreach team have already been out this morning (Monday 8 January) to offer accommodation and support to anyone found sleeping rough. Anyone sleeping rough in North Somerset will be able to access emergency shelter from today.
The council works in partnership with Somewhere to Go to provide emergency shelter and support at their premises on the Boulevard in Weston-super-Mare.
Cllr Jenna Ho Marris, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for homes and health said: “Our housing teams work incredibly hard to bring those sleeping rough in from the streets and settle them into longer term accommodation. I am confident that together with the strong support of Somewhere to Go, along with faith groups and volunteers we can continue this work.”
Anyone worried about a rough sleeper is encouraged to get in touch with the North Somerset Outreach Service on 01934 629 787 / 07891 809 004 (during office hours). Alternatively, you can call the Homeless Prevention team on 01934 426 330 (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday 9am to 4.30pm). If you need to speak with someone outside of office hours please call 01454 615 165 (Monday to Friday after 5pm / Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays).