NORTH Somerset Council have activated an emergency protocol to ensure all known rough sleepers can access shelter ahead of the cold snap forecast this week.

The authority activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) for rough sleepers, in line with the relevant Government and Homeless Link guidance.

The SWEP ensures that the council takes the necessary steps to make sure all known rough sleepers can access shelter if it is believed they are at risk due to sleeping rough during severe or extended cold weather.

The Rough Sleeper Outreach team have already been out this morning (Tuesday 19 November) to offer accommodation and support to anyone found sleeping rough.

Anyone verified as sleeping rough in North Somerset will be able to access emergency shelter from today.

The council works in partnership with Somewhere To Go to provide emergency shelter and support at their premises on the Boulevard in Weston-super-Mare.

Anyone worried about a rough sleeper is encouraged to report them via StreetLink (thestreetlink.org.uk) or get in touch with the North Somerset Outreach Service on 01934 629 787 / 07891 809 004 (during office hours).

If you need to speak with someone outside of office hours, please call 01454 615 165 (Monday to Friday after 5pm / Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays).

For anyone looking for a space to come together and stay warm we have a number of community living rooms which are safe, welcoming and non-judgemental.

You can view opening times and community living rooms near you on our map https://map.n-somerset.gov.uk/communitylivingrooms.html