Key Points:
- Hackney Council has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to provide safe and warm accommodation for rough sleepers during freezing temperatures.
- Residents are encouraged to report sightings of rough sleepers via the StreetLink website (https://thestreetlink.org.uk/).
- Rough sleeping in Hackney increased from 17 individuals in 2021 to 27 in 2022, according to official Rough Sleeping Snapshot data.
- Factors contributing to homelessness include housing shortages, the cost-of-living crisis, and changes in government housing policies.
- Hackney is among the London boroughs with higher-than-average rough sleeping rates, as per the 2023 CHAIN report.
- Hackney Council collaborates with charities like St Mungo’s and Hackney Winter Night Shelter to address homelessness and provide emergency accommodation.
- The council’s pandemic-era “Everyone In” initiative temporarily reduced rough sleeping by offering immediate accommodation to homeless individuals.
We’re activating the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol #SWEP to ensure anyone sleeping rough has somewhere safe and warm to go as temperatures drop
If you see someone sleeping rough, report their location on the @streetlink_ website https://t.co/5OzQ7RwUjo pic.twitter.com/rZDSziU7UW
— Hackney Council (@hackneycouncil) February 17, 2025
What Is Hackney Council Doing to Support Rough Sleepers During Severe Weather?
Hackney Council has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to safeguard rough sleepers as temperatures plummet.
This initiative ensures that individuals sleeping rough have access to safe, warm spaces during periods of severe weather. The council is urging residents to assist by reporting the location of rough sleepers via the StreetLink website.
How Prevalent Is Rough Sleeping in Hackney?
Rough sleeping in Hackney increased by 58% in 2022, according to official data.
The Rough Sleeping Snapshot recorded 27 rough sleepers in Hackney on a single night in 2022, compared to 17 in 2021. The rise reflects broader challenges affecting the borough, including housing shortages, the cost-of-living crisis, and changes in government policies.
How Does Hackney Compare to Other Boroughs in London?
Hackney has higher-than-average rough sleeping rates compared to London’s outer boroughs.
According to the 2023 Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN) report, Hackney is among the inner London boroughs most affected by rough sleeping. London as a whole accounted for 45% of all rough sleepers in England in 2022.
What Long-Term Measures Are in Place to Combat Homelessness in Hackney?
Hackney Council works with local charities to provide emergency housing and long-term solutions.
Initiatives include partnerships with organisations like St Mungo’s and Hackney Winter Night Shelter to offer emergency accommodation and support services. During the pandemic, the council participated in the government’s “Everyone In” program, temporarily housing homeless individuals to protect them from COVID-19.
What Can Residents Do to Help Rough Sleepers?
Residents are encouraged to report rough sleepers to ensure they receive support.
Hackney Council advises residents to use the StreetLink website (https://thestreetlink.org.uk/) to report the location of anyone seen sleeping rough. This helps outreach teams provide immediate assistance.
Why Is Rough Sleeping Increasing in Hackney?
The rise in rough sleeping is attributed to housing shortages, economic pressures, and policy changes.
Hackney, like many London boroughs, faces a severe housing crisis exacerbated by rising living costs. Changes in government funding and support for homelessness services have also impacted the borough’s ability to address the issue comprehensively.
What Is the Broader Impact of Rough Sleeping in London?
London accounts for nearly half of all rough sleepers in England, underscoring the capital’s housing challenges.
The CHAIN report highlights that rough sleeping remains a significant issue across London, with inner boroughs like Hackney disproportionately affected. Collaborative efforts between councils, charities, and government agencies aim to address this crisis.
By taking proactive steps like activating SWEP and encouraging public involvement through StreetLink, Hackney Council is working to mitigate the immediate risks faced by rough sleepers during harsh weather conditions.
