Extra shelters open in Gloucestershire to protect rough sleepers from cold weather
Emergency protocol has been activated to provide rough sleepers with somewhere warm and safe to stay.
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated when temperatures drop below freezing for a prolonged period.
It means extra shelters are opening across the county to provide warm and safe accommodation for people experiencing homelessness.
Matt Gasside, from homeless charity P3, said: "We're doing our best to prevent a death on the streets. It's very dangerous for someone to stay out in these freezing conditions. So our priority is to get people safe and in the warm.
"It's a really difficult time when the temperatures are below freezing. Those who are rough sleeping are some of the most vulnerable people in our society and these periods of cold weather are particularly difficult for them.
"That's why SWEP is put into place and funded by the council."
The charity is urging members of the public to report rough sleepers to them so they can offer their support.
Matt continued: "We ask everyone to let us know if you see someone who is rough sleeping so we can go out and check they are safe and offer them accommodation for that evening."
The charity works in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council and the six borough councils.