Background
Whilst there is no legal requirement for councils to provide shelter for people sleeping rough during severe weather, Lichfield District Council strongly believes there is a humanitarian obligation to provide emergency accommodation to rough sleepers during extreme weather to prevent injury and death.
In addition to the direct risks associated with severe weather, the actions people might take to get out of severe weather can also increase the risk of harm and death. For example, people might find cover in unsafe places such as large bins, which can result in crush injuries or death if the bin is emptied. People might also enter buildings or property without permission, including derelict structures, with associated risks around fire safety and building collapse. People may also increase their substance use as a coping mechanism during bad weather.
Attempting to keep safe and dry in extreme weather increases the risk of death and injury to people without shelter.
The council’s housing, homelessness and rough sleeping strategy 2019 – 2024 reinforces the council’s commitment to supporting rough sleepers during severe weather.