As temperatures drop with the onset of colder weather, temporary shelter will be provided for people sleeping rough in Watford via the town’s Winter Shelter and Severe Weather Emergency Provision...
This has been made possible thanks to funding from Watford Borough Council and support from homelessness charity partner, New Hope. Every night from 1 December 2023 to 31 March 2024 (regardless of temperature) at the shelter, New Hope’s team of staff and volunteers will be providing hot meals and beds within the Haven on Whippendell Road.
If, and when, the temperature does fall below 0°C, then SWEP will be specifically called, and additional beds will be made available, if necessary. SWEP is activated when there is severe weather and is designed to prevent deaths or serious illness on the streets during periods of particularly difficult conditions.
Elected Mayor of Watford, 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 emergency action 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.”
Councillor Jennifer Pattinson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Wellbeing, 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.”
Deputy CEO and Head of Services at New Hope, Rob Edmonds, said: “New Hope services will help with people’s immediate needs, but also allows us to keep people safe until plans can be put in place to try and prevent people from returning to rough sleeping.”
If you do see someone sleeping rough, please call New Hope’s 24/7 helpline 0300 012 0168 or report their position with the Streetlink app on your mobile phone. You can also find out more at www.newhope.org.uk/wintershelter.
