What is SWEP?
SWEP is a life-saving emergency response activated during extreme weather- whether it's freezing cold, scorching heat, or dangerous storms. Its goal is simple: get people sleeping rough into safe shelter.
SWEP status: active until Monday 12th January 8.30am
Who’s involved?
- Norwich City Council – leads co-ordination and activation
- local charities & housing providers – open emergency beds
- partners – including Pathways, Doorways, VAS, Shelter, NSFT, and CGL
Daytime walk-in services (Mon–Fri)
You can drop in at these places for support, rest, and resources:
| Location | Hours |
|---|---|
| The Arc | 8am - 1pm |
| Under 1Roof | 9am - 2pm |
| VAS | 9am - 5pm |
| St Stephens Church | 10am - 3pm |
| Doorways Drop-in | 12pm - 3pm |
| MAP (under 25s only) | 1.30pm - 5pm |
SWEP activation timeline
| Time | What happens | Who's responsible |
|---|---|---|
| 11am | Decision to activate/extend SWEP | Norwich City Council |
| 11am | Public and partners notified | Norwich City Council |
| Daytime | Outreach to vulnerable individuals | Council and partner agencies |
| Daytime | Bed space co-ordination | Norwich City Council |
| 4pm | Referral deadline for partners | Network partners |
| 4.15 - 10pm | Out of hours referrals and placements | Norse and Norwich City Council |
| 10pm | Final admissions deadline | Council and partners |
| 8am | SWEP guests leave venues | Council and partners |
Accessing SWEP
- Council outreach teams engage daily with rough sleepers
- people are allocated a venue and time during the day
- extra beds are added if needed.
Safeguarding and safety
SWEP spaces are offered to everyone, but access may be refused if:
- they arrive outside designated hours
- they don’t show up at their assigned venue
- they pose a serious risk to others
Pets at SWEP venues
- some venues allow dogs, but space is limited
- kennels can be arranged in advance - not available on the night.
Want more info?
For full details, see the SWEP Protocol here.
