Emergency measures triggered in Nuneaton and Bedworth due to severe weather

[dutchman]

The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is designed to ensure rough sleepers are not left out on the street in the sub-zero temperatures



Emergency measures have been triggered in Nuneaton and Bedworth due to the severe weather. The council has said that it has launched its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP).

It aims to help rough sleepers during periods of extreme weather. The SWEP comes into force when the forecast predicts temperatures will drop to zero degrees celsius or below for three consecutive nights.

It means that the council has a duty to to temporarily accommodate anyone who is homeless in severe weather conditions. This is regardless of the usual restrictive criteria that would apply under normal weather conditions.

Councillor Clare Golby, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and communities at the Town Hall, said: "Rough sleepers are particularly at risk of harm when temperatures drop, and the council is committed to helping them get the support they need at this crucial time."

Councils will accommodate homeless people regardless of priority need, intentionality or other usual exclusions - anyone who is sleeping rough is eligible. The borough council's housing solutions team have been tasked with arranging the most appropriate accommodation available at the time.

Anyone sleeping rough on the streets, or anyone worried about someone sleeping on the streets, can phone either of these numbers to report where the individual is - Housing Solutions Service at the Town Hall on 024 7637 6376 during office hours or the Out of Hours service on 024 7638 2153 at other times.

"If you are worried about anyone, please get in touch as soon as possible using the telephone numbers above," Cllr Golby added.