Fears Mount For Fate Of Rough Sleepers As Snow Forecast And Temperatures Drop

The weather forecast for the North West in the next few days shows snow is about to hit and temperatures to drop below freezing, raising concerns for those sleeping rough on the streets of Merseyside.

The Met Office is predicting a snowfall across most of Britain on Thursday, with high drifts in rural areas. A cold northwesterly airstream will be in place throughout Thursday bringing occasional snow showers. Around 2cm of snow is possible at low levels, with up to10cm on high ground above about 200 m.

This comes after a man, said to be in his 40s, was found in a gateway in Victoria Street in Liverpool city centre last Thursday. He was taken to the Royal hospital following concerns for his health but, sadly, later died. Police told the Liverpool Echo that his death is not being treated as suspicious and the details have been passed to Liverpool’s Coroner’s Court. The ECHO understands he had pre-existing medical conditions.

His death came a night after temperatures plummeted below freezing across Merseyside, sparking concern for rough sleepers and homeless people across the region. According to Liverpool Council around 15 to 20 homeless and rough sleepers remain on the city’s streets, but this figure could be much higher.

Last month, Liverpool Mayor Joe Anderson ordered the city’s cold weather shelter, operated by The Whitechapel Centre, to open on any night where the temperature is forecast to drop below 2°c. Previous guidance was for the Crown Street centre to open at night when the temperature dropped to freezing. That move followed a campaign to promote the No Second Night Out helpline, to make sure those sleeping on the streets receive the support and help they need.

If you are concerned that someone might be at risk sleeping rough, call 0300 123 2041 or email info@whitechapelcentre.co.uk . Outreach workers from the Whitechapel Centre will provide a rapid response to support rough sleepers reported to the charity.

No one should have to spend a single night out in this deadly weather, so spare a thought and make the call. It could save a life.