27 Nov 2024 | Updated 10 Dec 2024
In event of tumultuous weather warnings in the UK, driven by jet streams, Langar Aid accommodated for almost 50 people seeking shelter and warmth from dangerously cold weather.
Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) was activated at the beginning of the week, 18th November 2024, when temperatures dropped to 0°C (Celcius). Extreme weather conditions very quickly produced a threat to life, and SWEP is specifically signalled to safeguard rough-sleepers or those at risk of homelessness in the UK.
Official statistics in 2021-22 show that the West Midlands falls in the top-five regions of the UK with the highest rates of homelessness, with over 1,500 people identifying as homeless, with a steady rise since. Having uncovered the true extent of homelessness amongst youth in the country, youth charity Centrepoint predicts that the South East, London and the West Midlands are to face the highest numbers of 16-24 year olds enduring homelessness this upcoming winter period.
SWEP was activated from Monday 18th to Saturday 23rd. In alignment with the Coventry City Council’s Rough Sleeping Strategy, Langar Aid opened its spaces to accommodate those endangered by the severe weather conditions.
The Langar Aid Coventry House operates 6 days a week, delivering food parcels by day and serving hot food from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, Sunday to Friday. By night, the outreach program facilitated a warm, dry space for a full week, allowing rough-sleepers to take shelter and receive hot food and refreshments.
Volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the night, serving tea and coffee and welcoming a variety of people throughout the night, from refugees to the elderly. Referrals came pouring in through the Coventry City Council, and amounted to almost 50 people seeking respite in Langar Aid’s warm hub.
"Together, we can create warm, safe spaces where no one has to face the harsh winter alone. By uniting as a community, we can ensure everyone has the support and shelter they need during the cold weather."
The Rough Sleeper strategy has supplemented Langar Aid operations in the past. In December 2019, as part of the council’s STEPS for Change initiative, Langar Aid provided shelter in a pop-up store in the Coventry city centre. The same was done during the COVID-19 pandemic and continual SWEP activations.
We thank you kindly for your donations for making such efforts possible. Usual operations and emergency food deliveries will continue into the upcoming winter period, and rough sleepers will continue to be accommodated for in the event of SWEP.
If you find yourself inspired and wish to volunteer in the West Midlands, please visit Volunteer with us.