Winter Alert: Supporting People Facing Homelessness
As the weather turns colder, sleeping rough becomes increasingly dangerous. Exposure to freezing temperatures, damp conditions, and the lack of safe shelter can lead to serious health risks and tragically, even death.
Since 2021, rough sleeping in England has surged by 91%, with over 4,600 people estimated to be sleeping rough on a single night in Autumn 2024. As the cost of living continues to rise, more individuals and families are finding themselves in precarious housing situations.
How to Help: StreetLink
If you see someone sleeping rough, or if you are sleeping rough yourself, StreetLink is a vital service that connects people with local outreach teams.
How it works:
- Send an alert via the website with details like location, time, and a brief description.
- Outreach teams receive the alert and attempt to locate the individual.
- They offer support such as emergency shelter, health care, and longer-term housing options.
StreetLink is not an emergency service — if someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Visit: StreetLink
Other Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is at risk of homelessness, these UK organisations offer help:
- Shelter – Free housing advice, emergency helpline (0808 1644 660), and legal support.
- Crisis – Offers housing, employment, and wellbeing services. Call 0300 636 1967.
- Centrepoint – Support for young people aged 16–25, including accommodation and mental health services.
- Homeless Link – A national network of homelessness services and resources.
- Electrical Industries Charity – Providing a range of support for those working in the electrical industry
