Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP)

During SWEP

If you are rough sleeping and need temporary accommodation phone us on 03448 920 908

If you become aware of any individuals who are rough sleeping and require assistance help is available.

In Belfast call The Welcome Organisation on 07894 931 047

In Derry/Londonderry call First Housing 07540 100 208

In any other area, call us directly on 03448 920 908

What is SWEP?

The Severe Weather Emergency  Protocol (SWEP) is a set of arrangements which ensures that accommodation is available for people who are sleeping rough when there is an increased risk of death due to the weather.

We are responsible for implementing the SWEP. We base our decision on weather conditions and use forecasts from the MET Office.

Implementation of SWEP

The SWEP will usually be implemented during conditions of extreme cold, including snow and ice and temperatures dipping below zero (with consideration of factors such as wind chill). SWEP will always be considered in any weather that may post a threat to anyone sleeping rough.

What happens during SWEP

When SWEP is triggered we notify homelessness service providers to arrange additional accommodation and support for the duration of the SWEP. If needed, we will also engage with other providers who may be able to provide additional capacity.  

We share information about providers, the number of spaces/crash facilities and referral arrangements within our own teams including our Out of Hours Homelessness Services team. This means that they can direct people to available support when they are contacted.

We work with our service providers to identify people sleeping rough and provide them with accommodation and support.

If a member of the public contacts us with concerns about someone sleeping rough our Outreach Team or staff will investigate and try to make contact with the person sleeping rough to arrange accommodation and/or support.

How will I know if SWEP is in place?

When SWEP is implemented we share information about how to get help on our Facebook and X pages.

Can I get help when SWEP is not in place?

SWEP is a very specific set of additional arrangements for extreme weather conditions. 

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, get help as soon as possible and contact us:

Tel: 03448 920 900

Or visit your local Housing Executive office.