Emergency rough sleeper support extended in Wiltshire
Severe Weather Emergency Protocol's see Wiltshire Council work with partners to reduce risk of harm to people during extreme weather
Last updated 10th Jan 2026
Emergency support for rough sleepers in Wiltshire has been extended until Monday (12th January) by Wiltshire Council.
The local authority can activate its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) during periods of severe weather that pose a risk to people's safety.
It allows organisations like Salisbury-based homelessness charity, Alabaré, to expand it's offer of support by offering extra bed space at it's drop-in services in Salisbury and Chippenham.
Jamie Coltman, Complex Needs Service Lead, said they can house up to six individuals during SWEP at Alabaré Place in Salisbury, while Unity House in Chippenham can accommodate an extra seven people.
Wiltshire Council says it's seeing more referrals for rough sleepers made through StreetLink allowing them find accommodation.
How referrals and support work during SWEP
Jamie explained that referrals for accommodation are managed through collaboration with Wiltshire Council’s Rough Sleeper Team, Turning Point, and other agencies.
Together, they aim to help individuals navigate towards stability.
Through SWEP, rough sleepers also gain access to essential services like hot meals, showers, a laundry facility, and advice from partner agencies.
Even after SWEP ends, Alabaré continues to support individuals, often working with the council to identify more suitable or long-term housing options.
Jamie added: "We don’t just throw people back onto the streets. Sometimes they move into our services full-time if a vacancy aligns."
Community generosity fuels ongoing support
Alabaré’s work also benefits from community donations, including winter packs and clothing, particularly during the festive season.
These provisions make a significant difference to rough sleepers and residents in need.
Jamie expressed gratitude for local generosity and noted that all donations are carefully cleaned before distribution.
He added that people can also donate any unwanted Christmas gifts to Alabaré's charity shops, which will find them a new home and help rough sleepers rebuild their lives.
He said: "Check the Alabaré website for service locations or contact us directly to arrange a drop-off. Your donations will find a new home and make a lot of difference."