SWEP status
However, Summer SWEP is automatically triggered when the Met Office forecasts temperatures above 26°C.
Specialist outreach workers offer support in Summer SWEP for people sleeping rough. They offer:
- Access to drinking water
- Isotonic drinks
- Sun cream
- Sun hats
- Information about local cool spaces.
They are also trained to recognise the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and can make referrals to health services where needed.
How to get help
Suitable accommodation may be available for rough sleepers during severe weather. If you are sleeping rough or know someone who is:
- Phone: 0300 123 2224 (Somerset Council)
- Out of hours phone: 0300 123 2327
- Report online: StreetLink
Please provide as much detail as possible, including the person’s location and any immediate needs.
When SWEP is active, outreach teams will offer support for anyone sleeping rough. This could be emergency accommodation or other means of support to help protect them from the severe weather conditions.
About SWEP
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated during periods of extreme weather to help protect vulnerable individuals from serious harm during severe conditions.
The SWEP response is used by many local authorities when there is a forecast of zero degrees or below zero. Severe weather also includes heat waves, high winds and flooding.
In Somerset we have a common-sense approach based on the severity of the weather conditions and may activate SWEP when the conditions are particularly harsh for less than three nights.
SWEP in Somerset has two aims:
- To ensure that no one dies or is caused serious harm on the streets due to severe weather
- To ensure that every effort is made to engage individuals with support
When SWEP is activated
SWEP is triggered when:
- Temperatures are forecast to fall to zero degrees Celsius or below for three consecutive nights.
- Temperatures are forecast to be above above 26 degrees Celsius.
- There is severe weather, such as heavy snow, storms, or flooding, that poses a risk to life.
We monitor Met Office forecasts and local conditions to decide when to activate SWEP.
Support that is provided
When SWEP is active, support workers can help people who are sleeping rough to access shelter and will provide advice on longer-term housing options.
Local charities and outreach services
These organisations provide vital support for people experiencing homelessness in Somerset.
- Arc (formerly Taunton Association for the Homeless)
Accommodation, outreach, and support services. - Julian House
Supported housing and prison resettlement services. - Open Door Taunton
Day centre offering food, showers, clothing, and housing support. - Second Step – Step Together
Support for people facing homelessness and multiple disadvantages. - Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (Turning Point)
Free, confidential support for substance misuse. - StreetLink
Report someone sleeping rough to connect them with local services. - Thrive (Community Council for Somerset)
Community support and advice services. - Yeovil Community Church – Roost
Drop-in for people experiencing homelessness.
How you can help
If you see someone sleeping rough during severe weather:
- Contact us using the details in the how to get help section above.
- Do not assume someone else has reported it – every report matters.
Further information
For more details on homelessness support in Somerset, visit Homelessness review and assessment