Understanding SWEP: A Lifeline for the Homeless During Severe Weather
A special Shout out to Elaine who raised this with me recently following one of our many insightful discussions.
When the weather turns harsh, the risks for those sleeping rough on the streets increase dramatically. This is where the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) comes into play. SWEP is a locally agreed procedure designed to provide emergency accommodation for people sleeping rough during severe weather conditions. The aim is to prevent harm or death to individuals by offering a safe place to stay when the weather poses a significant threat.
What is SWEP?
Local authorities activate SWEP when severe weather conditions, such as extreme cold, heavy rain, or strong winds, are forecasted. Unlike regular winter provision, which may be available throughout the winter, SWEP is a temporary response to heightened risk and can be triggered at any time of the year. It is open to everyone, regardless of their immigration status or local connection, ensuring that no one is left out in the cold.
How Does SWEP Work?
Local authorities are responsible for opening SWEP shelters and coordinating the response. The type of accommodation provided can vary, including hotel beds, faith-based spaces, or hostel beds. The goal is to offer immediate shelter and support to those who might not normally engage with statutory services.
Agencies to Contact for Homeless Assistance
If you come across someone who is homeless and in need of help, there are several agencies you can contact:
- Local Council: Your local council is the first point of contact. They must help those who are legally homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. You can find your local council at https://www.gov.uk/homelessness-help-from-council
- Shelter: Shelter provides free advice, support, and legal services to people struggling with bad housing or homelessness. They offer guidance on finding emergency accommodation and other support services. Homelessness advice - Shelter England
- Crisis: Crisis is a national charity that helps people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. They offer a range of services, including finding and securing housing, vocational training, and wellbeing support. Homelessness support | Get help for homelessness | Crisis UK
- Homeless Link: Homeless Link offers resources and guidance for local authorities and voluntary organisations to plan and deliver SWEP and winter provision. Knowledge Hub | Homeless Link
- Government Resources: The UK government provides information and support for those facing homelessness. You can find more details https://www.gov.uk/if-youre-homeless-at-risk-of-homelessness
STREETLINK
If you have concerns about anyone who is rough sleeping please be aware of StreetLink they can be used by anyone in England and Wales to send an alert about someone who is sleeping or preparing to sleep rough the website contains really useful information please see below:
Alerts are sent to outreach teams, who go out mostly at night to connect people sleeping rough to local support services.
StreetLink helps existing outreach teams by alerting them to people sleeping rough.
HOW STREETLINK WORKS?
Once an alert is submitted via StreetLink, the details are automatically sent to the relevant local outreach teams. These teams then try to locate the individual, assess their needs, and offer appropriate support services with the aim of ending their homelessness.
StreetLink itself does not provide direct accommodation or actively search for individuals sleeping rough. Instead, it acts as the link between members of the public and local outreach services to provide assistance for those in need of support.
StreetLink can only accept alerts for people who are sleeping rough or preparing to sleep rough and are over 18. If someone is under 18 years old, call 999. Please do not make an alert if the person is begging or engaging in anti-social behaviour if they are not rough sleeping.
PLEASE USE THE LINK BELOW TO MAKE AN ALERT
Tell us about someone sleeping rough - StreetLink
Remember, a small act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. Let us work together to ensure that no one faces the dangers of severe weather alone.
1 Comment
Although I have an awareness of SWEP, it’s been really useful to read through the whole process and more importantly, how to make a referral. The list of agencies and contact details will be handy to keep.
Thank you Elaine for generating this article!