31 January 2012
St Mungo's is working with boroughs and local partners on severe weather emergency provision as temperatures drop below freezing and make rough sleeping potentially life-threatening.
In London, St Mungo's outreach teams in Westminster, Southwark and Ealing are redoubling efforts to bring rough sleepers off the streets and in from the cold, tracking down new referrals and asking the public to let outreach teams know if they are concerned about anyone who is rough sleeping,
Read about the emergency shelter St Mungo's has opened in London, funded by the Mayor.
When the weather is predicted to drop below zero degrees centigrade for three consecutive nights, local boroughs activate what is called Severe Weather Emergency Protocols (SWEP).
St Mungo's works with local partners to provide emergency provision for those who could die if left on the streets. Homeless men and women are supported inside and offered a hot shower, clean clothes, and hot food as well as a bed, while St Mungo's staff work to find them more permanent accommodation. St Mungo's outreach teams in Bristol and Reading are doing similar work as temperatures tumble in their areas.
Mike McCall, Executive Director of Operations at St Mungo's, said: "SWEP beds offer a vital life line for the extremely vulnerable living on the streets during these freezing nights. As temperatures drop, there is a real danger that people will lose their lives if they sleep outside.
"Our workers will be out on the streets, making contact with rough sleepers who really need a roof over their head. We are committed with our partners in the voluntary sector, central and local government to making sure that no one is out in such cold weather."
If you are concerned about a rough sleeper in London, email streetconcern@mungos.org, or use our Tell us about a rough sleeper referral form.