An emergency initiative has been launched to help rough sleepers over the festive period.

Medway Council's Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is now in place until December 29.

Emergency action to protect the homeless is taken when it is forecast to go to zero Celsius or below for three consecutive nights.

Accommodation is being provided for rough sleepers in Medway in addition to the housing options it has for homeless people throughout the year.

Its housing team and partner agencies in the Homelessness Forum hope to spread the message to as many rough sleepers as possible to get them off the streets and into the warm.

Year-round support is also available to those who need and would like the help.

Rough sleepers are encouraged to call Kingsley House in Gillingham, on 01634 333600 or Freephone 0808 1641444 before 5pm on Wednesday, 23 December.

Those who are unable to call during the day will still be provided with emergency accommodation through an out of hours homelessness service.

It can be contacted when SWEP is in place, on 01634 304400.

To find out more, visit its website.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway