Emergency measures, known as Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) come into force when sub zero temperatures sweep across the country. It means that councils who trigger the protocol have to provides extra emergency accommodation for rough sleepers.

The SWEP comes into force when temperatures plummet below zero for three consecutive nights and are not lifted until temperatures begin to rise again. The government-backed initiative means that individuals identified as sleeping rough are given emergency accommodation to provide a warm roof over their heads during the cold snap.

Local authorities work in partnership with local organisations to identify those at risk. But people can also report rough sleepers during SWEP periods with their local council.

Once SWEP is activated, emergency

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