During periods of hot weather, people sleeping on the street have an increased risk of developing heat-related illnesses. Without access to water or shelter, street homeless can find it hard to cool down, impacting their health and well-being. They are more likely to have increased vulnerably to the heat dues to poor health, substance misuse, and malnutrition.

Bury Drop In provides a cool safe space offering shelter from the sun and heat during the hours of 11am-1.30pm, every Tuesday and Friday at Trinity Methodist Church. In addition to delivering healthy summery meals, keeping hydrated with water and squash, and handing out ice lollies, guests are given summer provisions including reusable water bottles and sunscreen. Those requiring spare clothing are given a referral to the local Salvation Army to purchase spare clothing from their charity shop. NHS health outreach and West Suffolk Council rough sleeper service are on hand to help and give advice on many issues including housing, health, addictions and welfare.

If you are sleeping rough or concerned about someone sleeping rough, you can report them to StreetLink. This enables people to send an alert about someone sleeping rough to the local authority that can help their homelessness. Visit www.streetlink.org.uk.