Organisations and agencies across Birmingham have united to offer beds and support to people who sleep rough as temperatures fall.
Birmingham’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol has been activated due to snow and very cold temperatures.
The protocol is activated when a yellow weather warning is in place from the MET office, or when temperatures have a real feel of zero degrees or below.
Beds are available to anyone who wants one, with agencies mobilising to provide opportunities for rough sleepers to get a free hot drink, meal or hot shower.
If members of the public see anyone sleeping rough, they are being encouraged to make a report on StreetLink. The referral will be sent to a Rough Sleeper Outreach Team, who will find the person sleeping rough and provide them with shelter.
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol was activated on 5 January and will remain in place until the weather improves.
Cllr Nicky Brennan, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said:
“As the weather turns colder, it’s really important people know that no one needs to sleep rough in Birmingham this winter. There is a safe bed available for anyone who wants one.
“We have support in place all year round for people who are sleeping rough, and when temperatures drop below freezing we step that support up even further to make sure people are safe.
“You may still see people sleeping rough during cold spells, and if you do, please let us know through StreetLink so our outreach teams can check in with them and offer help.
“We will continue to work closely with charities, faith groups and partner organisations, and to prioritise securing the funding needed, so that anyone sleeping on our streets is treated with dignity, care and compassion.”
Birmingham’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol is activated by Trident Reach on behalf of Birmingham City Council.
Nigel Wilson, Trident Group Chief Executive Officer, said:
“Trident Reach is proud of its committed and long term partnership with Birmingham City Council to support the homeless and rough sleepers in the city.
“During these difficult weather conditions our outreach teams are working directly within the community to find safe, warm places to stay, for those that need it most.
“We are determined to help keep vulnerable people across the city safe and supported.”
