02/10/2026
Seen somebody experiencing homelessness?
The most effective way to report someone who may be sleeping rough is through StreetLink. Reporting only takes a few minutes. Once a referral is received, it is passed to an outreach worker who will aim to locate and engage with the individual, often within 24 hours and typically no later than 48 hours.
👉 Report concerns via StreetLink: https://www.streetlink.org.uk
Rough sleeping is often complex and there is rarely a quick or simple solution. Making a report does not automatically mean that someone will be immediately housed.
People who sleep rough are among the most vulnerable members of our communities, and may face a range of challenges, including mental health issues, drug or alcohol dependency, physical health needs, trauma, relationship breakdown, financial difficulties, or a lack of suitable accommodation options. In some cases, individuals may not be ready or willing to engage with support services at that time.
Rough sleeping in and of itself is not a criminal offence however individuals can still be subject to enforcement action if separate behaviours are causing harm, nuisance, harassment, alarm or distress to others, just as anyone else could be.
Enforcement is always considered carefully and proportionately, alongside efforts to provide support and address underlying needs.
What your Streetlink report does do is trigger a response from Cornwall Council's Resettlement Team, whose specialist staff will work with the individual to understand their circumstances and tailor support to their needs.
Supporting someone away from rough sleeping is often a partnership effort involving a range of organisations, including:
• Cornwall Council's Resettlement & Rough Sleeper Teams
• Adult Social Care
• We Are With You (drug and alcohol support service)
• Cornwall Council's Community Safety Team
• Health services, housing providers and other specialist support agencies where appropriate
While agencies work hard to offer support and accommodation options, it is important to recognise that adults have the right to make their own choices. We cannot force someone to accept support if they do not wish to do so.
Every StreetLink report helps us build a better understanding of where support is needed and provides another opportunity for outreach workers to engage with someone who may need help.
If you see someone sleeping rough, please report it through StreetLink.
Your information could be the first step in helping someone access the support they need.
