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Gloucester activates Heatwave Emergency Protocol to support vulnerable residents

Published
Gloucester City Council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) in response to forecast high temperatures, with measures in place from Monday 22 June to Friday 25 June 2026.

During this period, targeted support will be provided to people sleeping rough across the city. While Heat-SWEP does not include an accommodation offer, the Council is working closely with outreach teams and local partner organisations to ensure individuals have access to essential support.

Outreach teams will be increasing patrols and engagement, providing water and sunscreen, and directing people to a network of designated “cool spaces” across Gloucester. These locations offer shade, hydration, and respite from the heat, helping to reduce the risks associated with prolonged high temperatures.

The Council would also encourage members of the public to support this effort by reporting anyone they see sleeping rough via StreetLink, helping outreach teams connect people to appropriate services quickly.

Councillor Rebecca Trimnell, cabinet member for community engagement, said:
“Periods of extreme heat pose serious risks, particularly for those sleeping rough. Activating Heat-SWEP allows us to work with partners to provide practical, immediate support and safe spaces across the city. We are grateful to the organisations who have stepped forward to offer cool spaces and to the public for helping us reach those in need. I really do hope our city’s rough sleepers take up these cool spaces for their own health and wellbeing”. 

The situation will be reviewed ahead of Friday 25 June.