Due to the freezing temperatures overnight, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been extended until tomorrow in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
It was anticipated to last from Saturday 18thJanuary until today, however temperatures are still below zero during the night.
Andrew Teale, Service Manager at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Street Outreach Service, has confirmed: “We are extending the SWEP until tonight, however the protocol will be deactivated Wednesday 22 January morning with no provision in the evening.”
❄️#SWEP will be activated from Saturday 18 January until the morning of Tuesday 21 January❄️
There will be a space inside for everyone #sleepingrough
For location information visit: https://t.co/EajpBwL4VX
?A number of well behaved dogs are welcome pic.twitter.com/YJuwzq0sav
— Street Support Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (@SSupportBCP) January 18, 2020
When the protocol is activated, emergency overnight spaces are opened up at St Stephens Church in Bournemouth and the United Reform Church in Poole.
BCP Council state that sleeping rough is always dangerous but when the temperature drops it becomes life threatening.
St Mungo’s Outreach Team, which is commissioned by the BCP Council, have been out urging people to get to the churches for a safe night sleep.
Reverend Dr Ian Terry, Team Rector of Bournemouth’s Town Centre Parish is working with St Stephens Church about this issue.
He said: “We can accommodate up to 40 people, male and female in separate accommodation at any other time, but with the temperatures dropping and the protocol being activated, St Stephen’s Church hall is offered up and anyone is welcome.”
The protocol is activated when temperatures are forecast to drop below zero degrees for three or more consecutive nights, when there is severe rain or storms predicted.
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