HELP is being given to people rough sleeping in the BCP region as the UK experiences soaring temperatures this week.

In response to the heatwave, several councils across the south may activate their Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to ensure people can shelter safely during the extreme heat.

The St Mungo’s outreach team in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is already conducting visits to provide sunscreen, sun hats and water to people who are currently sleeping rough in the area.

Helen Denyer, service director at St Mungo’s, said: “It is always dangerous for people to be sleeping rough, but extreme weather including soaring temperatures like those we’re seeing this week can pose a real threat to life.

“The heat can cause a number of severe health illnesses such as heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

“Our teams are working hard to provide people with sun protection and fresh water and we would encourage members of the public to take action if they see somebody sleeping rough during this warm weather period.

“Buying somebody water or sun cream could be immensely helpful, and we would urge people to contact StreetLink if they are aware of someone who is sleeping rough or without shelter. This will help connect them with local support. If somebody is in an emergency situation always call 999.”

StreetLink operates 24 hours a day with alerts being passed to local outreach teams who then use the information to find and support people sleeping rough.

It is estimated that nationally there are 75 extra deaths in the general population per week for each degree in temperature.