ROUGH sleepers are being urged to seek shelter from the extreme heat over the next few days.
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol, or SWEP, has been activated for the Cheshire West and Chester area.
Normally, SWEP is activated during the winter months, when sub-zero temperatures put the lives of rough sleepers at risk.
However, given the current amber weather warning for extreme heat, SWEP is now in place until Sunday.
SWEP is a humanitarian response to provide support to rough sleepers in periods of severe weather conditions.
The emergency offer is in place to prevent vulnerable rough sleepers dying on the streets. SWEP is not intended for sofa surfers or for those that have temporary accommodation.
Those at risk are urged to call 0300 123 2442 for a room.
The SWEP campaign is promoted by the local SHARE charity and is supported by ForFutures and Cheshire West and Chester Council.
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