THE local council are advising the public on what they can do if they are experiencing homelessness this winter.

With the temperatures now dropping to freezing degrees, winter is the hardest time of year for those living on the streets.

There were just three people recorded as experiencing homelessness in the borough of Test Valley during the autumn months.

The leader of Test Valley Borough Council is now reiterating the authority’s commitment that nobody needs to sleep on the streets this winter.

Councillor Phil North has said that anybody who is experiencing homelessness this winter will not leave the council’s offices without first being made an offer of support or accommodation.

TVBC could not say what type of accommodation will be offered as this will be assessed on an individual basis but under Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), when the temperature falls to near or below freezing, local authorities offer accommodation as an urgent requirement for anyone sleeping on the streets. The accommodation is often in the form of a hotel, B&B, hostel or similar and is a temporary offer until temperatures rise.

Cllr North is also reminding residents of the assistance and care on offer from charities around the borough and the rounded help they can provide.

Councillor North said: “This can be an incredibly difficult time of year for some, and that’s why I want to take this opportunity to reiterate our dedication and commitment to anyone who is experiencing homelessness or sleeping rough at the moment.

“As the temperatures drop, it really can be a tough period. Which is why we proactively go out and engage with people we think are rough sleeping as well as well as responding positively to those who seek help from us. Unfortunately, offers of accommodation aren’t always accepted but we keep trying through our investment in outreach services.

“This time of year, many people out of the goodness of their hearts, also want to help the less-fortunate. There are various housing charities and support networks in place in Andover and Romsey, such as Two Saints and Bridge House, who would be most grateful to receive any help over the winter period.”

Housing and environmental health portfolio holder, councillor Tracey Tasker added: “For many years we have been focusing on the importance of getting to know the individuals who come to us for help, and their situation. This includes building trust with people on the street such that they might accept help to come inside. Many organisations work with us to ensure the next steps are successful ones.

“While we continue to work as hard as we can to ensure nobody has to face a night on the streets, I would also urge residents wishing to help, to make sure they do so in the best way possible. Sometimes, giving to people directly on the streets can frustrate the efforts being made by local services to persuade people to come inside – especially if they’re experiencing drug or alcohol addictions. Are ultimate message though is that there is help and accommodation available to ensure no-one needs to sleep rough this Christmas.”

For anyone concerned about their housing situation, contact the council’s housing service on 01264 368000 (Andover) or 01794 527700