Winter is the most dangerous time of year for people sleeping rough. Cold temperatures, wet conditions, and shorter days create life-threatening risks for people without shelter. In Brighton — despite its mild coastal climate relative to the rest of the UK — winter rough sleeping remains extremely dangerous. Seaside CIC provides year-round support for rough sleepers in Brighton, with an increased focus during the coldest months.
The Dangers of Sleeping Rough in Winter
Hypothermia is the most immediate risk for rough sleepers in cold weather. The body loses heat rapidly when sleeping on cold ground or in the open air, and hypothermia can develop surprisingly quickly — even in temperatures above freezing when conditions are wet and windy. Hypothermia can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Other winter risks for rough sleepers include: frostbite and trench foot from prolonged exposure to cold and wet; chest infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses; worsening mental health; and increased isolation as public spaces become less welcoming in cold weather.
Severe Weather Emergency Protocols
When temperatures are forecast to drop to zero degrees Celsius or below for three or more consecutive nights, local authorities in England are required to activate Severe Weather Emergency Protocols (SWEP). This means emergency shelter must be made available for rough sleepers. In Brighton and Hove, SWEP is coordinated by the council and local homelessness organisations.
How You Can Help in Winter
If you see someone sleeping rough in cold weather, report them via StreetLink (streetlink.org.uk) so outreach teams can reach them. You can also donate warm items — sleeping bags, thermal socks, waterproof jackets, and hand warmers — to local homelessness organisations. Financial donations to charities like Seaside CIC help fund outreach work and emergency accommodation during the winter months.
Remember — if you are ever concerned that someone’s life is in immediate danger from the cold, call 999. No one should die on our streets.
