AUTHORITIES in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have activated the severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP) to protect vulnerable people sleeping rough during the current cold spell.

The protocol will run for the next three nights and will be reviewed on Thursday, January 1.

SWEP provides emergency accommodation and support to anyone at risk of harm due to severe weather conditions, helping to reduce the risk of loss of life.

The initiative is delivered through the Homelessness Partnership, which is a collaboration between BCP Council, the homelessness charity St Mungo’s and other community organisations.

This urgent measure ensures that everyone sleeping rough across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole can access safe shelter and support during the coldest nights of winter.

Residents concerned about someone sleeping rough are urged to contact the outreach team via phone at 01202 315 962 (24-hour answerphone), email BCPRoughSleepingService@mungos.org or through StreetLink.