The Wallich, the largest homelessness charity in Wales, is working with councils across the country to help rough sleepers and homeless individuals cope with extreme heat as red and amber weather warnings remain in place. The charity operates dedicated rough sleeping outreach teams and drop-in centres in Cardiff, Bridgend, Swansea, Haverfordwest, Pontypool, and Aberystwyth, with many other services opening their doors to provide shelter from the sun during the hottest parts of the day.
Outreach teams provide essential supplies
Jamie-Lee Cole, strategic communications lead for The Wallich, explained that people experiencing homelessness are among the most affected by climate change. "They are the most exposed to extreme weather events like a heatwave, as well as heavy rain and cold in the winter," she said. "Our rough sleeping outreach teams are going out offering people (and their pets) water, sun cream, hats, wet wipes and other essentials."
The charity is also providing advice on avoiding dehydration, worsening health conditions, wounds, and sunstroke. "Most importantly, we’re encouraging people to access public spaces, like libraries, and centres like The Wallich during the hottest parts of the day," Cole added.
Drug and alcohol advice during heatwave
The Wallich is having "sensible conversations" about drug and alcohol use during the heatwave. Cole said: "We’re encouraging everyone not to mix both drugs and alcohol together, as the heat can create higher risk of overdose and dehydration. We advise for people to use less than they usually would and make sure they take on extra fluids."
Cole also highlighted the danger of people sleeping in their cars, which she described as "extremely dangerous" during the heat. The charity is working with councils to provide emergency provision for those living in vehicles. "There’s more than 10,000 people and families living in temporary accommodation at this time too," she noted. "While it’s great to have temporary accommodation, people are often living in smaller, hotter spaces, so we are providing specialist support for them during this time."
Public urged to check on rough sleepers
Cole urged the public to treat rough sleepers as they would anyone else. "If you’re worried about someone on the streets, treat them like any other person. Check on them. If someone looks unwell and you feel safe to approach them, ask if they’re okay. Encourage them to move into shade or a cooler space. Alert emergency services if you think someone needs help in the heat. Offer people experiencing homelessness a cold drink and a chat, just like you would anyone else in your community."
Matthew's House in Swansea provides cool-down measures
In Swansea, Matthew's House, a charity based on High Street that cares for some of the city's most vulnerable, has set up a hose on the 'mist option' to help people cool down, at the request of guests. From Sunday to Tuesday, the charity served 800 meals and 200 people, 45% of whom are vulnerably housed.
Council responses: SWEP and enhanced support
Swansea Council confirmed that its Severe Weather Emergency Plan (SWEP) is in place. A spokesman said: "Due to the current heatwave, our SWEP is in place. So we have been increasing our support for people stay safe by providing advice on coping in the heat and offering additional practical assistance to protect their health and wellbeing. As always, our commitment to rough sleepers is that there is always a bed available for them in Swansea whenever they need it."
Cardiff Council has taken proactive steps, including sharing Public Health Wales guidance, bringing in additional staff, and providing extra accommodation. A spokeswoman said: "Additional accommodation has been made available to ensure people have access to safe shelter during the hottest periods. Teams are also carrying out enhanced welfare checks, with a particular focus on those most at risk, including people sleeping rough, those with underlying health conditions and older residents. Practical support is being provided, including access to drinking water, sun protection and appropriate clothing where needed."
Newport Council has arrangements in place for inclement weather, including hot conditions. A spokeswoman said: "We have arrangements in place to provide additional support to those who are sleeping rough during inclement weather conditions, including when it is very hot. Newport City Council commission The Salvation Army to provide an outreach service for rough sleepers and this continues to operate. Advice is provided to all clients in relation to the hot weather. Water and suncream is being provided. People without somewhere to stay are also being offered a safe space in supported housing."
Pembrokeshire Council noted that its SWEP protocol had not been triggered, but a spokesman said: "We have been proactively engaging with rough sleepers to assess whether accommodation is needed. At present, none have requested this support, but the situation remains under review and regular dialogue will be maintained. We have provided bottled water, sunscreen and hats, and reminded individuals about access to shower facilities and partner agency warm spaces, which also serve as cool spaces during hot weather."
