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 14 November 2024 to 13 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.
Thanks to many generous donations to its Crowdfunder, New Hope has also been able to purchase a pet-friendly sleep pod. Warm, cosy and comfortable, this pod is ideal for people who have a pet, mobility issues, or who struggle to sleep in a room with lots of other people.
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: “This winter, we are once again working with New Hope to offer warmth, shelter, and support for anyone in need. Our ongoing work reflects our commitment to ending rough sleeping in Watford, making sure everyone in our borough has a free, safe place to turn to, especially during the harshest months of the year.”
Councillor Jennifer Pattinson, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Wellbeing, said: “This extra support provides not just shelter but a welcoming space, reminding each individual that they are not alone. Working closely with New Hope, we are committed to offering not only a bed but also a community of care and support during this challenging season. Every resident deserves the dignity of a warm, safe place to stay, and we’re here to ensure they have it.”
Deputy CEO and Head of Services at New Hope, Rob Edmonds, said: “Watford Winter Shelter is such an essential service throughout the coldest, wettest months of the year. Working together with Watford Borough Council and other partners gives people a clear route into accommodation and helps us strive to ensure that no one has to sleep rough in our town.”
If you do see someone sleeping rough, please call New Hope’s 24/7 helpline 0300 012 0168 or report their position to Streetlink at thestreetlink.org.uk. You can also find out more at www.newhope.org.uk/wintershelter.
