Emergency provision for Peterborough rough sleepers opened as freezing weather forecast
Emergency measures to keep rough sleepers safe in Peterborough have been activated as freezing temperatures are forecast.
Due to the predicted drop in temperatures, the Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) will be available to verified rough sleepers from Tuesday 17 February 2026 until the morning of Friday 20 February 2026, the city council has said.
SWEP means that accommodation is available to rough sleepers during bad weather – typically when freezing temperatures are forecast overnight.
A spokesperson for Peterborough City Council said: “The provision will be reviewed daily, and we will update partners when it is due to close.
“If you are rough sleeping — or working with someone who is sleeping rough — please contact Housing Needs during office hours on 01733 864064.
“Outside of office hours, please call 01733 864157 (Emergency Out of Hours Housing).
“If you are aware of someone sleeping rough, please report it via https://www.streetlink.org.uk/
“Our outreach team will continue to carry out outreach at various times of the day and night to support those most in need.”
Temperatures in Peterborough are forecast to drop to 0C from midnight tonight (February 17), according to The Met Office.
Sleet showers are predicted on Wednesday night, while temperatures are forecast to drop to -1C on Thursday evening.
Last month, when SWEP measures were introduced, more than 30 rough sleepers were supported by the council.
At the time, a city council spokesperson said: “Each individual is provided with immediate practical support, including clothing and toiletries where required. Alongside this, our team works holistically with every person to understand and address wider support needs, such as mental health, substance misuse, or physical health concerns.
“Where appropriate, we complete full homeless assessments and ensure that every individual has a clear pathway from the streets into longer‑term accommodation and support. We remain concerned about rough sleeping throughout the year, not only during periods of severe weather, which is why our team works persistently to identify and engage with people at risk.
“Our rough sleeper outreach team patrols known hotspots and follows up on all reported sites, operating early mornings and late at night across the city. They work closely with partner organisations to respond swiftly to concerns.”