Somerset Council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) over the Christmas and the New Year.
The SWEP is used by local authorities when there is a forecast of 0 degrees or below, and during heat waves, high winds and flooding.
It ensures that rough sleepers can access emergency accommodation during Christmas and the New Year, to prevent harm or death due to severe weather.
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A spokesperson for the Council said: “Please help to spread the message that suitable accommodation may be available for rough sleepers during the severe weather over this Christmas and New Year season.
“Please check if you can access the service by calling 0300 123 22 24 during office hours and 0300 123 23 27 out of office hours as early as possible."
The SWEP has two aims: to ensure that no one dies on the streets due to severe weather, and to ensure that every effort is made to engage individuals with support.
People who are concerned about someone sleeping rough in Somerset can refer them via Street Link, with messages going to the Council and relevant stakeholders.
According to the Somerset Council, they have a 'common-sense' approach based on the severity of the weather conditions and may activate SWEP when the conditions are particularly harsh for less than three nights.
Outreach teams are currently contacting rough sleepers in Somerset to encourage them to take up the offer of emergency accommodation and will offer additional support for anyone continuing to sleep rough during SWEP.
Other outreach services also provide support for people experiencing homelessness in Somerset, such as Arc, Open Door Taunton, and Second Step - Step Together, which offers support for people facing homelessness and multiple disadvantages.
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