Due to forecasts for freezing temperatures in Reading this week, the council have now guaranteed rough sleepers short-term accommodation.

Reading Borough Council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) alongside homelessness charity St Mungo's and said it would remain in place until at least Monday (November 25).

The authority said the response was triggered when temperatures of 0C or below were forecast for at least three consecutive nights.

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Councillor Matt Yeo, lead for housing, said: "We are acutely aware that those rough sleeping on our streets face more threat when the weather turns cold, as it has done this week, and I'm pleased to see SWEP is now in place to protect them.

"Please do report anyone you see rough sleeping via StreetLink, external so we can ensure they are offered help."

The council is helped with the additional spaces required during the emergency protocol by the Salvation Army, YMCA Reading and Launchpad Reading.