SWEP activated until 8:30am Monday 12 January
Due to the cold weather and low overnight temperatures, we have activated our Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to enable rough sleepers to access emergency accommodation.
Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP)
Norwich City Council and its partners work together to make sure people sleeping rough have access to safe shelter, support, and essential supplies during extreme conditions. Here's how the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) works - and how you can access help when it's needed most.
What is SWEP?
SWEP is a life-saving emergency response that kicks in during extreme weather to help people sleeping rough in Norwich. It provides temporary shelter to protect vulnerable individuals from dangerous conditions like freezing temperatures, storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat.
Who can access SWEP?
Anyone sleeping rough in Norwich may be eligible if:
- they have no safe indoor place to sleep (cars, sheds, or garages don’t count)
- they are at risk due to the weather
- they are over 18 years old
- they agree to follow the rules of the accommodation and don’t pose a risk to others
Even people who don’t usually qualify for housing help - like those with no recourse to public funds, no local connection, or who’ve been excluded from services - can be supported under SWEP.
Who’s involved?
- Norwich City Council – leads co-ordination and activation.
- Local charities and 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:
- The Arc – 8am to 1pm
- Under 1Roof – 9am to 2pm
- VAS – 9am to 5pm
- St Stephens Church – 10am to 3pm
- Doorways Drop-in – 12pm to 3pm
- MAP (under 25s only) – 1:30pm to 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 |
When is SWEP activated?
SWEP is triggered when:
- the night-time temperature is forecast to be 0°C or below for three consecutive nights
- there’s snow on the ground or a “feels like” temperature below freezing
- the Met Office issues red or amber weather alerts for Norwich
The council may also activate SWEP early, especially before weekends or holidays, to ensure support is available when services are limited.
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.
Why SWEP matters
SWEP is about preserving life. It’s not a legal requirement, but Norwich City Council sees it as a humanitarian duty. It also offers a chance to connect with people who may not usually engage with support services.
How is SWEP communicated?
When SWEP is activated:
- partner organisations are notified
- updates are posted on the council’s website and social media.
