18/11/2025
❄️Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) Activation - Winter 2025 ❄️
As temperatures begin to drop. It’s that time of year again when additional measures are put in place to help protect people who are rough sleeping in dangerous weather conditions. We can confirm that the first SWEP activation of the inter season is provisionally scheduled from 20:00 on Tuesday 18 November 2025 to 08:00 on Friday 20 November 2025. These date will continued to be reviewed as the weather forecast develops, we will share updates if anything changes.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll also be publishing more detailed information about how SWEP operates, what triggers and activation and how the community can support people experiencing homelessness during severe weather. For now, here are the key points to remember from our perspective:
1️⃣ If you are concerned about anyone sleeping rough, please report this to the Local Authority and the Outreach Team via The StreetLink. This is the most effective way to ensure that trained professionals can locate the individual, check on their wellbeing, and offer appropriate support.
2️⃣ We cannot accept self-referrals for SWEP accommodation. All placements must come through North Somerset Council or the YMCA Homeless Outreach Team. This helps ensure the support is coordinated, fair, and based on verified need.
3️⃣ It is important to recognise that not everyone who is rough sleeping will accept SWEP accommodation. People have the right to make informed choices about where they sleep, even in cold weather. There are many reasons someone may decline - past experiences, anxiety, safety concerns, comfort in the outdoors, or preference for their own space. We respect these decisions while continuing to offer support wherever possible.
4️⃣ If you are interested in volunteering with us, especially during the busy winter season, we would love to hear from you. Please email [email protected] for more information about opportunities to get involved.
Thank you to everyone who continues to support our work and looks out for others in our community. Winter can be a difficult and dangerous time for those without a safe place to stay, and your awareness, compassion, and action can make a real difference. Together, we can help ensure that no one faces the cold alone.