WHEN the temperatures are set to fall below zero – as they are this week – Bradford Council puts special provision in place to make sure no-one has to sleep outside.

The Cold Weather Provision is a multi-agency partnership, commissioned by Bradford Council, to provide emergency bed spaces across Bradford for people rough sleeping on freezing cold nights.

When the temperature is due to fall to zero or below from October 1 until April 30, the Council’s outreach teams are out on the streets across the district, making sure rough sleepers can access the provision.

Yesterday (November 17) one person used the service and 11 have so far come forward for this evening.

It is a service described by one 23-year old, who had been sleeping rough in Bradford city centre - but who has since been supported into long-term accommodation - as ‘amazing.’

The man, known as Jack, said: “It’s hard on the streets at any time but you know when the temperature’s dropping and you know people can die in their tents.

"The Cold Weather Provision definitely works. It’s amazing and it saves people’s lives. Making sure people are warm and giving them a cooked meal means everything.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for Regeneration, Transport and Planning said: “Severe cold weather increases the risk to people sleeping rough. Snow, freezing temperatures and icy winds can be life-threatening.

"When temperatures drop below zero, our provision means that those vulnerable people can have a warm place to stay indoors.

“An offer of accommodation is available to people sleeping rough when the temperatures fall.

"And of course, we recognise that these people may have complex support needs all year round and our teams offer support and ways into accommodation all year round too.

"We won’t give up on anyone no matter how difficult their situation may be.”

Anyone worried about someone sleeping rough in the district can use the Street Link app or visit streetlink.org.uk to help connect them with local services.

Referrals to the provision can be made in person at Discovery House, 133 Barkerend Road, BD3 9AU Saturday – Sunday, 1pm to 4pm, or the Salvation Army, 371 Leeds Road, BD3 9NG, Monday – Friday 9am-3pm.

Referrals can also be made over the phone on 01274 309165 and through Bradford Council’s Housing Options Service.

A brief assessment will be undertaken to assess a suitable bed space for the person.

Work will be also undertaken to assess the person’s needs and explore long term options for support.