Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been activated in London today (Thursday 2 January) as temperatures are forecast to fall below 0°C, and will remain in place over the weekend.
As an emergency humanitarian response, we will offer anyone rough sleeping emergency accommodation with the aim to preserve life. Our Outreach teams will be working additional shifts to ensure all rough sleepers are supported, and we are working closely with local authorities to find suitable and safe emergency accommodation.
Working extra shifts means we are able to spend more time on the streets, supporting those who are most vulnerable.
This severe weather emergency protocol comes at a particularly difficult time as latest CHAIN figures show a record number of people sleeping rough in London. Between July and September last year, a total of 4,780 people were recorded as sleeping rough in the capital. This is an annual increase of 712 people or 18% (vs Q2 2023/24), and a 13% rise on the previous quarter.
How you can help
If you see someone sleeping rough at any time:
- Make a referral via the StreetLink website or on 0300 500 0914
- In a health emergency, always call 999
- Consider volunteering or donating to support our work
Remember, your action could save a life and be the first step in someone’s journey off the streets.
