Rough sleeping resources
We have a range of resources designed to equip staff working in rough sleeping outreach services, including guiding principles with accompanying guidance, a brochure for volunteers, free bitesize E-Learning, and guidance on Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) and cold weather provision.
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Principles for Rough Sleeping Outreach
Updated: 18/10/24
This document details the core principles required for designing and delivering rough sleeping outreach services in England.
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Guidance for rough sleeping outreach services and volunteers
Updated: 27/9/24
Guidance for frontline staff and managers working in rough sleeping outreach services and a printable information leaflet for new or existing volunteers for outreach services.
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Bitesize learning: Outreach Essentials
Updated: 07/8/24
A series of four bitesize e-learning session in which we look at what effective outreach is and the essential elements of supporting people away from sleeping rough. We will look at what is needed to ensure the well-being of outreach workers. Each video has an accompanying transcript containing links to all the resources and additional e-learning available from Homeless Link and other sector partners.
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SWEP and winter provision
Updated: 14/10/25
Guidance and information to help local authorities and homelessness service providers develop suitable responses during the winter and periods of severe weather.
Latest news on Rough Sleeping
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News
Homeless Link turns 25: a conversation with the organisation’s original Chairperson, Sir Brian Pomeroy
Sir Brian Pomeroy, Homeless Link's original Chair, discusses how Homeless Link came into being, what the early years were like, and what lessons still resonate for the sector today.
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News
Everyone in by Christmas: the reality on the ground
Homeless Link CEO, Rick Henderson, acknowledges the challenges faced by frontline homelessness organisations considering the Government’s drive to offer everyone a route off the streets this winter.
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News
Burnham has been bold on rough sleeping; how can he actually get ‘everyone in’ by Christmas?
In an article for Inside Housing, Homeless Link Director, Fiona Colley, looks at how the new 'everyone in' could work and calls for bigger picture thinking.
Forthcoming events
Here are some forthcoming events relevant to rough sleeping:
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Learning from the North East: Making the Women’s Rough Sleeping Census Happen
This free practice forum will hear from the services involved in the Women's Rough Sleeping Census in the North East, how they got started, lessons learned and recommendations for others who are interested in taking part but don't know where to start.
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SWEP: more than just temperature
A free webinar exploring the impact of climate change on homelessness, in particular, the planning and delivery of SWEP (Severe Weather Emergency Protocol).
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Share your experience: Rough Sleeping Programme implementation drop in
A chance for Homeless Link members to share their experiences, concerns and priorities for the Rough Sleeping Programme recently announced by the Prime Minister. Your views will shape our advocacy.
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Outreach contact and support training
This training aims to help outreach workers deliver effective support interventions and achieve positive outcomes for people sleeping rough.