EXTRA efforts will be made to ensure the safety of rough sleepers following warnings of plummeting temperatures.

Councillors and charities confirmed there will be a heightened awareness of the welfare of the homeless over the coming weeks, with worsening weather potentially leading to temperatures dropping into “double negatives” at night.

Gary Turner, service operations manager at HARP, Southend’s homeless charity, said people concerned about rough sleepers should report cases as soon as possible.

He said: “Winter presents a challenging time for rough sleepers, and the plummeting temperatures mean that the nights are worryingly cold for those on the streets.

“The most vulnerable are also at high risk of viral infections, colds and flu which, without medical intervention, can escalate dangerously.”

He added: “At our day centre, in York Road, rough sleepers can access a free cooked breakfast and hot drinks which can really help after a long night on the streets. “They can also access medical support from our visiting nurse and clean clothing,”

Kerry Smith, chairman of Basildon Council’s housing and community committee, said: “This winter, Basildon Emergency Night Shelter is open five nights each week until March 31 to provide a safe and warm place for guests to sleep.

“We understand that this can be a dangerous time of the year for people living on the streets.

“Every local authority should have a Severe Weather Emergency Protocol to make extra accommodation and provision available, which is instigated in circumstances of heavy rain, snow or near-freezing temperatures.”

Mark Flewitt, Southend councillor responsible for housing, said: “We will have to make sure we redouble our efforts as much as possible as this cold weather comes in.

“There is no doubt about it, extreme cold weather is bad news for rough sleepers and we will need to work with third parties, with charities to make sure venues are available.”