Help available as temperatures plummet.
Outreach workers have been helping people sleeping rough on frozen streets, the city council has revealed.
In the last week, the council has provided emergency overnight accommodation to at least 23 people who would otherwise have faced freezing temperatures outdoors.
And with temperatures expected to drop further, the local authority is reminding people to contact StreetLink (www.thestreetlink.org.uk) to alert outreach workers to anyone seen sleeping rough. They visit individuals, offer safe accommodation and connect them with essential services.
Since opening a new and expanded facility in Fishermead last year, the city council has helped more than 60 people move from rough sleeping into secure, long‑term accommodation. Many have gone on to secure private rented homes, reconnect with family, or move into permanent council housing.
One centre, Kernow Place, provides individual rooms for men and women, each with their own kitchen and shower. Up to 20 people can stay at any one time, with access to 24‑hour support, including mental health services, drug and alcohol recovery programmes and practical life‑skills training.
Being able to stay throughout the day gives residents the space and stability they need to focus on recovery and building independence. If the centre is full, individuals are provided with alternative emergency accommodation. Typically, it operates close to capacity but with space available.
“No one in Milton Keynes should be spending the night on the streets,” said Cllr Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Communities.
“There is support available, and we want anyone who needs help to reach out. Our teams have been working incredibly hard to make sure people have somewhere safe to stay during this severe winter weather. Support is available throughout the year, and we ask residents to contact us if they see someone sleeping rough so we can offer them the help they need as soon as possible.”
