Cold weather measures triggered for rough sleepers

A city council has brought in emergency measures to support rough sleepers due to the cold weather.

Peterborough City Council said temporary accommodation would be offered to "verified" rough sleepers, and increased health and welfare checks would be carried out on those who did not take up the offer.

The provisions was due to be in place until Monday morning, but the authority said this would be reviewed daily.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow covering the East of England between 12:00 GMT on Saturday and 09:00 on Monday.

A council spokesperson said its rough sleeper outreach team was working closely with partners specialising in drug and alcohol, mental health and GP services.

"We also have partners that we are able to direct rough sleepers for showers, clothing, hot and cold drinks and a bite to eat to remain out of the cold weather," they said.

The council said there were 20 verified rough sleepers in the city.

Hope into Action, a charity which operates in Peterborough, previously said the council's rough sleeper count was the tip of the iceberg.

The local authority also brought in the emergency measures for rough sleepers in November.

The authority issued a number for anyone needing support - or if anyone was concerned about a rough sleeper: 01733 864064 (or 01733 864157 after 18:00).

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