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As the UK ushers in a new year, it continues to grapple with familiar winter conditions, facing snow, flooding and cold weather health warnings — but our homeless community will shoulder the greatest impact of the chill.
The UK’s Health Security Agency has issued a warning throughout England as the onset of 2025 brings a harsh cold wave.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather alerts that encompass almost all of England as well as Wales and certain regions of Scotland for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
Various councils across the UK are contemplating the activation of the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) — a measure that ensures rough sleepers find emergency accommodations when temperatures dip, in an effort to avert fatalities.
But what actions should you take if you encounter someone sleeping rough and are concerned about their safety?
How to assist homeless individuals during cold weather
If you find yourself in England or Wales, the most effective course of action if you spot someone sleeping rough is to reach out to Streetlink.
This initiative enables you to alert a local outreach service — be it your local authority or a charitable organization focused on homelessness, such as St Mungo’s.
These services will locate the individual sleeping rough to ensure they are made aware of the available support options.
You will be required to provide the precise location of the individual of concern, including a description of the area and a pinpoint on the map—along with the time at which you observed or interacted with them.
Additionally, you should describe their appearance, provide their name, age (if known), and other distinguishing traits — to assist the outreach service in identifying them.
If you need to act immediately, send your Streetlink notification via their website or dial 0300 500 0914.
This guidance pertains only to adults. If the individual seems to be under 18, it’s essential to contact the police instead.
Always call 999 in an emergency if you think someone requires urgent medical assistance.
Finally, you can reach out to your local council to report or ensure that someone you’ve noticed locally is receiving support. Check for the most suitable contact number or email address on gov.uk.
Many councils implement a SWEP, indicating that they should have a designated plan to aid local homeless individuals.
Additional methods to assist the homeless this winter
If you’re eager to contribute toward the long-term resolution of homelessness, there are numerous ways to provide assistance during winter — and all year round.
Donate coats and blankets
Have a coat that you no longer wear? Consider donating it to a charitable organization like Wrap Up UK.
Not located in your area? Search for your nearest homeless shelter or a similar service through Homeless Link, or visit the
“`Salvation Army clothing bank to learn about their current necessities.
In addition, items such as blankets, sleeping bags, and thermal clothing are highly sought-after donations.
Provide warm beverages/food
Should you wish to assist someone experiencing homelessness directly, you can always inquire if they would appreciate something to eat or drink.
Make sure to engage in conversation first to confirm it’s something they desire or require, and Shelter also indicates that it is acceptable to present blankets or warm attire.
If you are unable to contribute material goods, you can always extend a friendly greeting, check if they’re okay, and reach out to Streetlink.
Contribute to a charity or volunteer your time
Alternatively, you might consider donating to a charity focused on homelessness, which will facilitate the provision of shelter and nourishment.
There are several charities across the UK you could support, including (but not limited to):
Numerous charities may welcome volunteers who have time to contribute, even if they cannot donate financially.
For more information on what is needed, please visit their official websites listed above.
Another avenue for assistance is by subscribing to The Big Issue, a publication dedicated to combating homelessness.
Frequently, individuals experiencing homelessness work as vendors for the magazine – you have the option to purchase copies directly from them or subscribe online.
This article was first published on December 4, 2023
If you wish to contact our news team, please email us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
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