Charities

Emergency Shelter Offered as Lancashire Rough Sleepers Faced Soaring Temperatures During Heatwave

Good News Post

Jun 26, 2026 — 2 min read

Lancashire Rough Sleepers Offered Refuge as Heatwave Takes Hold - credit/supplied The Salvation Army

By Community Correspondent

A Lancashire hostel opened its doors to rough sleepers during a recent spell of hot weather, offering emergency shelter, water and a cool place to rest as temperatures climbed across the county.

Bramwell House, run by The Salvation Army in Blackburn, activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) during the heatwave, working with Blackburn with Darwen Council to support people sleeping on the streets.

The scheme, which is triggered during periods of extreme cold or heat, is designed to reduce the risk of serious harm to people who are homeless and have nowhere to shelter from the conditions.

Although the peak of the heat has now passed, staff at Bramwell House said the response highlighted the ongoing risks faced by people sleeping rough during periods of extreme weather.

Inside the hostel, people were offered drinking water, showers and a cool indoor space while temperatures outside rose to around 27C in parts of Lancashire.

SWEP plans are used by local authorities to provide emergency accommodation when weather conditions are considered dangerous, particularly for people without access to basic shelter or regular hydration.

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Colin Mottershead, service manager at Bramwell House, said the support was vital during periods of extreme heat.

“When temperatures rise, living on the streets with no escape or shelter from the extreme heat can be dangerous, and at times life threatening,” he said.

“While many people are enjoying the sunny weather, we’re able to offer a space where people can come in, cool down and get support, whether that’s a drink, a shower or just a bit of time off the streets.”

He said the service is focused on providing safety, dignity and a welcoming environment for some of the most vulnerable people in the community.

Members of the public can still support the service by donating bottled water to Bramwell House, with financial donations also accepted through The Salvation Army’s website.

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