A HOMELESSNESS charity says emergency winter measures have helped dozens of rough sleepers off the streets during recent spells of freezing weather.

ALABARÉ has been working alongside Wiltshire Council to provide extra bed spaces when the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated – a scheme triggered when temperatures drop below zero or conditions pose a risk to life.

During the most recent cold weather activations, the charity supported 11 people between November 19 and 21 last year, and a further eight people between December 30 and 12 January this year.

Emergency accommodation was made available at Alabaré Place in Salisbury and Unity House in Chippenham, with drop-in services in both towns also seeing increased demand.

Of those helped, four people – 21% – have since moved into ALABARÉ’s supported living accommodation.

Two were given places through the charity’s Homes for Veterans service, while six remained with ALABARÉ until alternative accommodation was secured through the council.

One person has since moved into private rented housing.

Justin makes up his bed.

Terence, who accessed support through SWEP, described the impact the service had on his life.

“I got released from prison around a year and a half ago and moved from pillar to post from there,” he said.

“I’ve lived in lots of places that didn’t work out, and then I was sleeping in a tent, just as the frost hit and the emergency support was brought in.

“ALABARÉ took me in off the streets. I was just expecting a room to be honest, but they’ve given me a great opportunity with a flat, and it’s really taken me in a new direction. It’s been great, and I’m doing really well now.”

Director of care and support at ALABARÉ Naomi Webb said: “Sleeping rough is incredibly difficult for people at the best of times, but during freezing weather, it could genuinely be a life-or-death situation.

“Through the SWEP, we can offer additional support that keeps more people warm and safe and points them towards longer-term help.

“Our drop-in centres provide hot meals, showers, and advice for those facing homelessness, but working with Wiltshire Council during particularly tough weather is that extra facet of help that can really make a difference.

“We’re grateful to the authorities locally for their proactive approach to keeping people safe.

“We’d encourage everyone in Wiltshire to keep an eye out for those who might need somewhere secure to sleep and report their concerns to StreetLink so we can ensure the right support is given.”

Justin enjoys the warmth.

The charity’s Winter Appeal has raised nearly £40,000 to support rough sleepers and other vulnerable people.