As a cold snap arrives in Wiltshire, the county’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated for the first time this winter.
That means homelessness charity ALABARÉ is working alongside Wiltshire Council to ensure greater support for rough sleepers during colder weather.
An additional ten-bed space is being made available for the homeless at Alabaré Place in Salisbury and Unity House in Chippenham.
The SWEP is expected to be in place until Friday this week (21st November) and is generally put in place when the weather forecast indicates freezing temperatures for three consecutive nights.
People who see rough sleepers in Wiltshire are asked to contact Streetlink to make referrals so people can access Alabaré's services.
A blog post has been shared on how the public can help those affected here: https://alabare.co.uk/severe-weather-emergency-protocol/
Naomi Webb, Head of Homelessness Services at ALABARÉ, said, “Sleeping rough is incredibly difficult for people at the best of times, but during freezing weather, it could genuinely be a life or death situation. Through the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol, we can offer additional support that keeps more people warm and safe, and point them towards longer-term help.
“Our drop-in centres provide hot meals, showers, and advice for those facing homelessness, but working with Wiltshire Council during particularly tough weather is that extra facet of help that can really make a difference.
“We’d encourage everyone in Wiltshire to keep an eye out for those who might need somewhere secure to sleep and report their concerns to Streetlink so we can ensure the right support is given.”
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