Homeless people are being encouraged to take up offers of shelter as temperatures in the Towns plummet.

The severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP) was activated by Medway Council yesterday (November 30) and will remain in place until at least tomorrow (December 2).

Emergency accommodation will be provided for rough sleepers as temperatures are predicted to drop below freezing.

The protocol will continue if temperatures continue to drop

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for Kent due to the cold weather causing wintry showers, icy patches, and some snow cover.

This emergency provision is in addition to the support and housing options the council offers to people sleeping rough in Medway all year round.

People sleeping rough are encouraged to call Kingsley House in Gillingham, on 01634 333600 or Freephone 0808 1641444 before 4.45pm December 1 to access support.

Those who are unable to call during the day can still access emergency provision through the out-of-hours homelessness service.

The out-of-hours service can be contacted, when the severe weather emergency protocol (SWEP) is in place, on 01634 304400.

The authority’s housing team and partner agencies in the Homelessness Forum are helping to spread the message to as many people sleeping rough as possible to get them off of the streets and into the warm.

If you are aware of someone sleeping rough in Medway you can report them to the council who will be able to offer support here.