Homeless people in Manchester city centre are facing severe health risks as temperatures soared into the mid-30s Celsius this week. The Manchester Evening News witnessed several rough sleepers suffering from sunburn and one appearing visibly unwell. Two others reported struggling with the heat.
Rough Sleeper's Ordeal
Josh, 29, from Wigan, has been sleeping rough since age 17. He told the M.E.N.: "I've had no help whatsoever in the heat, from anyone. Yesterday my body felt like it was shutting down, I was in Tibb Street at 11.15am, two people jumped out their car to put water on me. Someone could die in this weather. I don't smoke, drink or take drugs or have mental health issues, so they keep saying I'm not a priority for housing. They're saying there's nothing they can do to help me."
Community Concerns
Thomas, 53, who had accommodation for the night but was on the street, sheltered under an umbrella in St Ann's Square. He said: "People have been helping me basically, getting me water and things. I do worry about people rough sleeping not being able to cope in this weather. A lot of familiar faces are around here, if you don't see someone you start to worry and think the worst. They need to do something to help people."
Charity Response
Homelessness charity Mustard Tree said it distributes ice water, sun cream, caps, t-shirts and shorts via its reception during severe weather. It also supplies Greater Manchester Police and the Street Engagement Hub with water packs for outreach missions. The Hub operates every Tuesday and Thursday with GMP's Neighbourhood Policing Team, a drug and alcohol service, the Big Issue, St John Ambulance, and Manchester City Council's Rough Sleeping Team.
Council Measures
A Manchester City Council spokesperson said: "Our outreach teams, and partner organisations, work round the year to identify and offer support - including accommodation options - to anyone sleeping rough. During periods of severe weather, such as the current heatwave, additional measures are put in place to help keep people safe."
The council said it supports people to access day centres during the hottest parts of the day, where they can get water. It provides water to rough sleepers and advises on refill locations. Outreach shifts offer a rapid response to people outside during hot weather, including personal safety advice about sun exposure and how to stay safe during peak heat, as well as identifying and addressing health concerns. The council also activates its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol during extreme summer and winter weather.
