Extra beds for rough sleepers in Watford in sub-zero temperatures

With temperatures dropping with the arrival of colder weather, temporary shelter will be provided for those sleeping rough via the town’s Winter Shelter and Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP).

This has been made possible with funding from Watford Borough Council and support from homelessness charity partner, New Hope.

Every night from December 1 to March 31, 2004 – regardless of the temperature – New Hope’s team of staff and volunteers will be providing hot meals and beds for rough sleepers at their Haven shelter in Whippendell Road.

The council has confirmed the cost of running the winter shelter provision, as well as SWEP, with 15 beds for this period is £84,736.

If, and when, the temperature does fall below 0°C, SWEP will be activated and additional beds will be made available, if they are required.

SWEP is put into action when there is severe weather and is designed to prevent deaths or serious illness on the streets during particularly difficult conditions.

If you see someone sleeping rough in Watford, call New Hope’s 24/7 helpline on 0300 012 0168 or report their position with the Streetlink app on your mobile phone.

The Haven in Whippendell Road (Image: Watford Borough Council)

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “We provide support for rough sleepers all year round and our commitment to end rough sleeping altogether in the borough remains a key priority. This extra winter support will mean that there will be accommodation in place free of charge for people sleeping rough in town.

“I am pleased that we have been able to work with New Hope to provide this much needed support, which will ensure that no one is sleeping rough in Watford this winter.”

Portfolio holder for housing and wellbeing Cllr Jennifer Pattinson said: “This facility doesn't just offer overnight accommodation; it also extends compassion and empathy, something incredibly crucial, especially during this time of the year. Our commitment remains steadfast in providing all possible support to those experiencing homelessness in our community.”