Emergency shelter is set to be provided for rough sleepers due to freezing temperatures this week.

As Watford begins to see temperatures fall in December, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is coming into effect.

The aim is to provide shelter during severe weather for people who are rough sleeping in the Watford and Three Rivers area.

There are nine additional emergency beds available which are operated by New Hope and are funded by both Watford Borough Council and Three Rivers District Council.

The beds are located at Haven Support Centre, in Whippendell Road, Watford, where staff will organise camp beds and hot drinks.

The Rough Sleeping Prevention Service is available during the day between 8.30am and 1pm, as well as 1.45 to 3.30pm.

The New Hope charity supports people who are homeless or vulnerably-housed through the provision of accommodation and opportunities to transform their “damaged lives”.

It is founded on Christian values and they house up to 60 people each night and support more than 600 people.

The Imagine Property Group and New Hope charity held a Big Sleepout event at Fullerians Rugby Club, in Coningesby Drive, Watford, on Friday November 17.

Volunteers braved freezing temperatures by sleeping outdoors to help raise £50,000 for homeless people.

For more information, visit: https://www.newhope.org.uk/