SWEP stands for Severe Weather Emergency Protocol. It’s an emergency response to extreme weather conditions that can be activated by local authorities at short notice. It aims to protect people sleeping rough by providing emergency, short-term accommodation or shelter during periods of extreme weather.
Local authorities are responsible for activating SWEP and each has its own locally agreed procedure. This means each local authority determines its own triggers for activating SWEP and the types of services it will provide.
There is currently no legal requirement for authorities to provide shelter for people sleeping rough, even during extreme weather events. Thankfully, most authorities view SWEP as part of their humanitarian duty to prevent harm or loss of life.
SWEP is usually triggered when severe weather conditions present a risk to life. This includes extreme cold, wind, snow, rain and heat. Temperatures below 0°C or above 25°C are considered severe for the UK and are often linked to deaths in vulnerable populations.
Local authorities may also take into account other metrics, such as Met Office weather warnings or the ‘feels like’ temperature when deciding whether to activate SWEP.
Getting access to SWEP housing can vary by local authority. In some areas outreach teams may notify people sleeping rough that SWEP has been activated. They can also help to book you a bed. In areas without outreach teams, you should get in touch with a local homelessness organisation or the council to arrange a place for yourself.
All rough sleepers are entitled to access SWEP accommodation. This includes people who do not have a priority need for homelessness help, do not have a local connection and people who have no recourse to public funds due to their immigration status.
SWEP is an emergency response, not a long-term solution to homelessness. It offers short-term shelter during extreme weather to protect people from serious harm or death. SWEP is designed to be as accessible as possible, with few restrictions. This means anyone sleeping rough can get help, regardless of their immigration status, local connection or priority need.
Unlike SWEP, Winter Provision is available throughout the colder months and beds are available to people sleeping rough for a longer period of time. However, Winter Provision often has strict eligibility criteria. This can make it harder for everyone who needs help to access this service.
If you’re sleeping rough and at risk during extreme weather, we may be able to help you access SWEP accommodation. Support is available through our Skylight centres, where you can speak to our friendly team and get practical advice tailored to your situation.
Visit our get help page to find your nearest Skylight centre and learn more about the support available.