Surrey authorities have triggered emergency measures to protect vulnerable people, including the homeless, from expected extreme cold temperatures in the coming days, which could include snow and freezing rain.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice covering Surrey for between 12pm on Saturday (January 4) and midnight on Sunday (January 5).
The expected freezing temperatures have led to several Surrey authorities putting in place the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to protect vulnerable people from the harsh conditions, particularly those sleeping on the street.
According to the homelessness charity Homeless Link, this protocol is triggered by local authorities “to minimise harm or death to anyone who might be sleeping rough in severe weather, through the provision of emergency accommodation.”
The charity also states that there is ‘no legal requirement’ for local authorities to provide shelter for everyone during extreme weather, however according to Homeless Link it is ‘widely accepted’ that there is a humanitarian obligation to provide SWEP to those who are vulnerable and prevent death.
Elmbridge Brough Council and Woking Borough Council announced on Thursday (January 2) that this protocol has been triggered to reduce the likelihood of rough sleepers enduring a night outside in the forecasted freezing temperatures.
Additionally, this protocol has been triggered for the entirety of London, meaning all rough sleepers in London will have access to these services. This includes areas which neighbour Surrey such as; Kingston, Sutton and Wimbledon.
Elbridge Borough Council said in their statement: “If you are aware of a street homeless person during the daytime, they may be referred to Elmbridge Civic Centre.”
“The Housing Options team will interview the person and arrange for temporary accommodation for a limited period and carry out an Options interview to try and prevent repeat rough sleeping.”
On the weekend (starting January 4) the South East is forecast to have a frosty start, which will be followed by clouds and some temporary rain showers, with a potential for snow, which could arrive later. On Sunday, the forecast is more mild, with winds on the way and some rain. Wind is expected again on Monday, and it will get colder with a likelihood for rain, said the Met Office.
When extreme cold is forecast, it is important that local authorities take the necessary precautions to ensure that vulnerable people are protected from the harsh conditions, particularly those sleeping on the street.
Woking Borough council said in their statement: “We will support rough sleepers in Woking borough with emergency accommodation.”
If you see someone sleeping rough in this weekend, you can report to Street Link; who will ensure that vulnerable person is connected with the right support services. To make a report click here.
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