Colchester City Council remains steadfast in its commitment to assist vulnerable rough sleepers, especially during the challenges posed by the harsh winter months. The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), coordinated by the Colchester Borough Homes (CBH) Outreach Team, is once again at the forefront of these efforts, offering life-saving shelter and support to those in need.
From October 2023 to March 2024, SWEP provided shelter to 33 individuals for an average of six nights each, with stays ranging from one to 50 nights. This vital initiative offered refuge, while also connecting individuals to long-term housing options and essential health and social services. Several clients successfully transitioned to stable housing solutions, underscoring SWEP’s role in moving beyond emergency relief to sustained recovery under the ‘In For Good’ principle.
Cllr Paul Smith, Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “We recognise the acute dangers faced by rough sleepers during severe weather. SWEP is not just about emergency shelter but about providing a stepping-stone to a more stable future. Every effort we make reflects our deep commitment to ensuring no one is left out in the cold.”
The council and CBH continue to work alongside a wide array of partners, including statutory agencies, charities, and community organisations, to tackle homelessness in a holistic manner. Highlights of ongoing collaboration include:
- StreetLink Reporting System: Year-round tracking and engagement with rough sleepers, enabling targeted support through streetlink.org.uk.
- Local Support Services: The CBH Outreach Team provides tailored follow-ups, helping clients with housing applications, health services, and reconnection to local areas when necessary.
- Community Contributions: Through grants and partnerships, the council supports vital services like night shelters and advice centres to strengthen the safety net for at-risk individuals.
Despite progress, challenges remain in securing permanent housing solutions for all rough sleepers. This winter, the council is committed to expanding its resources, ensuring every individual who steps into SWEP accommodations has a clear path toward long-term stability, if they want it.
Members of the public are encouraged to report rough sleeping via StreetLink or contact the CBH Outreach Team directly for more information.
Cllr Smith added: “Homelessness is a complex issue, but with collaboration and targeted support, we can make meaningful progress. We urge everyone to be a part of the solution by helping us connect vulnerable individuals to the services they need.”
More details on reporting and outreach services are available at www.thestreetlink.org.uk or www.cbhomes.org.uk/your-neighbourhood/rough-sleeping
Page last reviewed: 20 November 2024