As temperatures drop, the city council is taking emergency action to ensure no one sleeping rough in Norwich is left out in the cold.
Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) comes into effect tonight and will be reviewed on a daily basis over the coming days.
SWEP enables anyone sleeping rough in Norwich to access emergency accommodation and support during periods of exceptionally cold weather. SWEP is activated when a temperature of zero degrees Celsius or lower is forecast for three consecutive nights.
The council’s rough sleeping co-ordinator liaises with outreach staff and partner agencies to put emergency provisions in place for everyone that needs support.
Temporary camp bed areas are set up within the communal spaces of existing supported housing projects to increase provision where needed, but individuals must be willing to receive assistance.
Councillor Gail Harris, Norwich City Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for council housing said: “We are committed to preventing rough sleeping and dedicate significant resources, throughout the year, to preventing homelessness, as well as providing support to anyone who finds themselves on the street.
“In these extreme weather conditions it is more vital than ever that people engage with support services and take the help on offer.
“We urge anyone requiring immediate assistance with finding emergency accommodation to contact the council on 0344 980 33 33. This number also provides out of hours support.”
Members of the public can notify the council of people rough sleeping at any time by emailing roughsleepers@norwich.gov.uk
Further information on homeless services in Norwich can be found here.
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