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Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP)
Norwich City Council and its partners are working 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 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 14th August
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
Hot weather advice (from the Met Office)
- stay in the shade
- drink plenty of water (free bottles are handed out)
- avoid alcohol
- stay indoors as much as possible
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 | 1.30pm - 5pm |
Extra support during SWEP
- health-focused outreach: 10am–2pm (Thurs and Fri)
- street provisions: hats, sunscreen, snacks, water bottles
- dog bowls and water
- extended drop-in hours
- cold water refill info
- clothing vouchers for lighter clothes
- no evictions from Home Office Accommodation during SWEP
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.
