We’ve all been finding it hard to cope with the heat over the last few days, but BCP Council is considering the plight of rough sleepers.

Cllr Hazel Allen, lead member for homelessness said: “The very hot weather we are experiencing means anyone on the street is at higher risk of becoming very unwell. We are working with St Mungo’s – BCP Outreach Team – to ensure anyone who is currently on the street is receiving regular welfare checks, provided with water and sun cream as well as advice on how to stay safe and well. We also have a number of cooling-off locations where people will be directed to if they need somewhere safe to rest in the cool and receive support. This is in addition to the ongoing work already provided to proactively engage with and support individuals to move off the streets and into appropriate accommodation and related access to support services.”

David Leatherbarrow, deputy manager of the St Mungo’s, said: “Rough sleeping is always dangerous, but in the hot weather it can be life threatening. The hot weather emergency response has been activated across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to provide urgent support to people that are sleeping rough in this heat.

“We urge members of the public to be vigilant. If you see anyone that requires urgent medical help please call 999.”

If a resident is concerned for someone sleeping rough please contact Streetlink: 0300 500 0914 or report via: www.streetlink.org.uk