Wiltshire Council and Alabaré helping rough sleepers during heat wave

Temperatures are set to carry on rising towards the weekend

Author: Aaron HarperPublished 7th Sep 2023

As temperatures rise across the country, Wiltshire Council and Homelessness charity Alabaré are working hard to ensure people who are sleeping rough in Salisbury are sufficiently looked after.

Alabaré are encouraging us to also look out for those sleeping on the streets who find themselves at risk of dehydration in the current weather.

Wiltshire Council’s Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) has seen them make contact with rough sleepers across the City.

It is predicted by the Met Office that the year's highest temperature of 32.2°C in June could be topped this week.

Alabaré’s drop-in centre on Barnard Street is open to people sleeping rough, as are the charity’s usual facilities.

Staff are providing cooked meals, showers and, importantly in the hot weather, bottled water and sunscreen.

We are asked to bare a few things in mind should we see people who are living on the streets.

Rough sleepers may find it tough to find cool and fresh drinking water, so offering a bottle of water can help, as can a hat or sun cream.

We are also encouraged to take some time and speak to those resting in the sun, offering support and suggesting they move to a shaded area.

SWEP is activated by Wiltshire Council at Amber level 14, however Wiltshire is currently at Amber level 12.

Should we reach level 14, offers of accommodation will be made to all rough sleepers.

So far, the Council have contacted rough sleepers to ensure they have plentiful supply of cold water and sun cream, as well as making them aware of where they can go to avoid the day time sun.

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