Rutland County Council Steps Up Support for Rough Sleepers as Freezing Temperatures Hit Rutland
Rutland County Council Steps Up Support for Rough Sleepers as Freezing Temperatures Hit Rutland
As winter tightens its grip on the county, Rutland County Council has issued an urgent reminder of the support available to those facing the life-threatening reality of sleeping rough in freezing conditions.
With temperatures forecast to drop significantly this week, the Council has mobilised its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP). This protocol ensures that additional emergency accommodation is made available to anyone found sleeping on the streets, regardless of their usual eligibility for housing assistance.
Freezing conditions pose a severe risk to health, and the Council is calling on the local community to act as its "eyes and ears" to ensure no one is left out in the cold.
If you see someone sleeping rough in Oakham, Uppingham, or any of Rutland’s villages, the Council urges you to report it immediately. Your call could be a lifeline.
During Office Hours: Call the Housing Options Team on 01572 758157.
Evenings and Weekends: For urgent assistance outside of normal working hours, please call 01858 464 499.
Residents can also alert the Council to the location of a rough sleeper via StreetLink, the national service that connects people sleeping rough with local support providers.
The Council’s dedicated Housing Options Team works year-round alongside partners such as P3 (Rutland Floating Support) and the Rough Sleepers Initiative to provide more than just a bed.
“Our priority is to get people off the streets and into the warm as quickly as possible,” a spokesperson for the Council stated. “But it doesn't stop there. Once safe, we work with individuals to address the root causes of their homelessness—whether that’s financial advice, mental health support, or help finding a permanent home.”
If you are at risk of homelessness or want to learn more about the services available in the county, please visit the Council’s dedicated support page:
