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
Spotlight on Rough Sleeper Verification
Verification of rough sleepers, in order to allow them access to services is highly controversial. This blog outlines the current trends and what they might mean for services going forwards.
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News
Annual review of support to end homelessness reveals a sector stretched to the limits
Homeless Link launches its annual research report exploring trends in support for single homelessness.
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News
Women’s specific experiences of homelessness and health must be addressed
For International Women's Day, Homeless Link's Senior Research Manager, Debra Hertzberg, analyses health data to show why women experiencing homelessness need tailored healthcare.
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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Rough Sleeping Conference: Turning the tide
Join us to explore practical ways to support people sleeping rough and work together to reduce rough sleeping across the country.