As an amber heat warning has been issued, extra support is available for rough sleepers in Peterborough.

The amber heat warning has been issued by The Met Office, and is in place for the whole of Thursday (August 8).

As a result, Peterborough City Council has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) – offering extra support for rough sleepers.

Cllr Ann Shaheed, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Homelessness and Poverty said: “Our Rough Sleeper Outreach officers are on patrol today engaging with those that may be vulnerable, as usual in these circumstances.

Sunscreen has been handed out to rough sleepers during the heat wave

placeholder image — Sunscreen has been handed out to rough sleepers during the heat wave

“We are giving out water and sunscreen and we are working with partners at Outside Links and The Garden House to provide space where people can get out of the sun.

“SWEP has also been activated for today for people that require it and there will also be additional people out in the city centre offering support and help as part of Operation Horizon - our two day clean up operation in the city centre”