Bradford Council Provides Emergency Shelter for Rough Sleepers During Cold Snap

Icy conditions have led a council to guarantee short-term accommodation for rough sleepers during the current cold spell. Bradford Council has activated its Cold Weather Provision scheme, which ensures that anyone sleeping rough is offered an “emergency bed space on freezing cold nights.” According to the authority, one person used the service on Sunday, with 11 individuals accommodated by the scheme on Monday evening. This action occurs as many parts of the country experienced their first snowfall of winter. Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, transport and planning, stated: “Severe cold weather increases the risk to people sleeping rough.” He added: “When temperatures drop below zero, our provision means that those vulnerable people can have a warm place to stay indoors.” Councillor Ross-Shaw further affirmed: “We won’t give up on anyone no matter how difficult their situation may be.” According to the council, a 23-year-old man who had utilized the service described it as “amazing.” The man, identified as Jack, who had been sleeping rough in Bradford city centre, said the service “saved lives.” He elaborated: “It’s hard on the streets at any time, but when the temperature’s dropping people can die in their tents.” Jack concluded: “Making sure people are warm and giving them a cooked meal means everything.” A council spokesperson explained: “When the temperature is due to fall to zero or below from 1 October until 30 April, the council’s outreach teams are out on the streets across the district, making sure rough sleepers can access the provision.”