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Colder weather highlights the importance of the team’s ongoing efforts that continue year-round, to support those most vulnerable during these challenging conditions.

Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement, said: “Homelessness is often a quiet and unseen issue, hidden behind closed doors or out of public view.

“Many residents rarely witness it, and there is often limited awareness of how to effectively assist those experiencing homelessness.”

The Council’s homelessness team, working alongside partners, is committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness by engaging with individuals sleeping rough and offering tailored support and pathways to sustainable housing and long-term recovery.

These initiatives not only support vulnerable individuals but also contribute to creating safer, cleaner streets by reducing opportunities for crime, drug dealing, and anti-social behaviour.

Homelessness can result from various factors, including sudden job loss, mental health challenges, addiction, or a lack of support networks. Each individual sleeping rough often has a complex history and can include trauma, social isolation, and hardship.

While setbacks and relapses are possible, the team’s continuous support ensures that assistance remains available during the most difficult and isolating periods.

During the coldest months, the Council provides emergency accommodation for those at risk, ensuring a warm and safe place to stay while offering access to services to longer-term housing.

The council encourages concerned residents who are aware of a rough sleeper to notify the councils Housing Solutions Team on 01952 381925.

This action supports Telford & Wrekin Council’s wider efforts to protect communitiesas part of the Winter of Action campaign which tackles anti-social behaviour, retail crime, and safety in town centres and wider enforcement activity under Telford & Wrekin Watch.