Birmingham mobilises to protect people who are sleeping rough during the severe weather

Birmingham’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol has been activated due to snow and very cold temperatures.

The protocol is activated when a yellow weather warning is in place from the MET office, or when temperatures have a real feel of zero degrees or below.

Beds are available to anyone who wants one, with agencies mobilising to provide opportunities for rough sleepers to get a free hot drink, meal or hot shower.

If members of the public see anyone sleeping rough, they are being encouraged to make a report on StreetLink. The referral will be sent to a Rough Sleeper Outreach Team, who will find the person sleeping rough and provide them with shelter.

The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol was activated on 5 January and will remain in place until the weather improves.

Here is the full story on the Birmingham City Council Website