Barnet Rough Sleepers Face Heatwave Risks

Individuals experiencing homelessness in Barnet and across London are facing heightened risks as the capital endures increasingly severe heatwaves. The concrete environment of the city exacerbates high temperatures, with limited tree cover offering little respite. Outreach teams are working to provide essential support, including water and access to cooler environments, to those most vulnerable to the extreme weather.

Barriers to Staying Cool

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For those sleeping rough, escaping the heat is not straightforward. Many rely on begging for income, which requires them to remain in public, often exposed, areas. The city's infrastructure, described as 'not built for heat' by Josie Ashdown, a lead manager at homelessness charity Thames Reach, makes urban environments particularly challenging. Furthermore, individuals often carry all their belongings, including clothing unsuitable for hot weather, due to a lack of secure storage.

Many rough sleepers have pre-existing health conditions that are worsened by high temperatures. Managing essential medication, such as insulin, becomes difficult without reliable storage. Outreach workers are conducting more frequent welfare checks on individuals with chronic health issues, as reported by Elle Slater, a service development manager at St Mungo's. The heat can also impair decision-making, leading to situations where individuals may not fully grasp the dangers they are in, as noted by Anneke Ziemen, a service manager for Thames Reach.

Inconsistent Support Across Boroughs

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While London has a 'Heat Ready' plan to expand access to cooling spaces and free drinking water, the provision of support for rough sleepers during heatwaves is not uniform across all boroughs. Unlike the established Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) for cold conditions, responses to heat are less consistent. There is no single temperature trigger or mandatory support level London-wide, leading to variations in how boroughs and outreach teams interpret guidance based on local resources.

This inconsistency has been described as a 'postcode lottery' by one charity, with access to temporary accommodation and other aid differing between areas. Stigma and practical issues, such as having pets or large bags, can also prevent vulnerable individuals from accessing public spaces that might offer respite. Dr Jennie Leggat, a former policy fellow at the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Science and Policy, highlighted that people sleeping rough may not always be welcomed in public areas.

Calls for Sustained Solutions

Homelessness charities are urging for more sustained and comprehensive solutions. Francesca Albanese, executive director of policy and social change at Crisis, stated that mandatory SWEP provision across the capital is a minimum requirement. She also called for greater investment in affordable housing and the Housing First model, an internationally recognised approach to ending homelessness by providing immediate housing and support.

Scientists have estimated that the heatwaves in May and June of this year contributed to approximately 2,700 deaths in England and Wales. The London Mayor's office has stated that City Hall and London councils are working together to issue joint guidance to boroughs and frontline services to ensure support reaches those most at risk.