What support is in place for rough sleepers in hot weather

As Summer arrives and the world starts to brighten, it’s easy to believe the hardest days are behind us.

However, rising temperatures can pose a real threat to people rough sleeping or in unsuitable accommodation.

While many of us are soaking up the sun in gardens, parks, beaches and beer gardens, for people who are sleeping rough, this heat can be dangerous — even life-threatening.

Why is this so dangerous?

With no shade, no water, no suncream, and nowhere to wash or cool down, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures takes a brutal toll.

These factors combine to put people at risk of sunburn, dehydration and, in some cases, heat stroke.

Many people who sleep rough also have underlying health conditions which can be exacerbated by hot weather, and if a person doesn’t cool down and hydrate, they can develop heatstroke.

How does Julian House support people during heatwaves?

Julian House provides outreach services throughout the year. These services provide daily outreach walks to directly connect with people sleeping on the cities’ streets and offer:

• Water and suncream

• Health checks and welfare support

• A safe, shaded space in our Day Centres 

Our Day Centres become a lifeline — offering not just food and water, but a place to rest, to rehydrate, to be seen and supported.

This time of year, demand for our services surges, as more people come in search of shade and safety.

‘It is pretty much essential to get out to the masses, to supply water, to give them the suncream but also ensure that their regular health check ups to ensure that they are not in any danger at the time. We also talk with the local services to see where shelters provided as some churches open the doors that people can go in and sit in there for a bit.’ Chris Ward, Service Manager at Dorset Services.

In the event of temperatures going above 30 degrees, local authorities call SWEP (Severe Weather Emergency Protocol) which is a temporary response to ensure the safety of people who are sleeping rough.

During this time our outreach teams work tirelessly to bring individuals off the streets and into safe sheltered accommodation.

However, the extra demand on already stretched services which are facing a lack of suitable accommodation and supplies which can make this an incredibly challenging time.

How you can act when you see someone who is sleeping rough:

If are concerned about someone sleeping rough and want to get in touch with our outreach teams, contact Streetlink.

1.       Locate - Send a pin of where you've seen someone sleeping rough

2.       Describe - Give as many details as possible to help services identify them

3.       Submit - Your alert will go to local support services who will go out to find the person.

By submitting an alert, you're not just raising awareness about a situation—you're taking action to improve someone’s life.

Be a part of the change today. #BeTheLink.

Support our Appeal:

This spring, we are launching our appeal to raise awareness of the issues faced by people who are homeless throughout the year, not just during winter when rough sleeping is the most visible and when public sympathy is at its highest.

Your support matters more than ever. By donating to our Spring Appeal, you’re helping us provide more than just shelter — you're offering dignity, compassion and hope to those facing hardship.

 Please, donate today: www.julianhouse.org.uk/donate