What to do if you're sleeping rough or concerned about someone that is
You're sleeping rough
We work in partnership with a number of agencies to provide accommodation and support to single homeless and rough sleeping people.
If you're faced with sleeping rough in West Norfolk, there are services that can support you.
If you have a local connection to west Norfolk you may be able to access some of the hostels and shared accommodation in the borough. We'll need to refer you so please contact us.
You can call 01553 616200, or 01553 616601 out of hours.
Or visit us in person below.
You're concerned about someone sleeping rough
Are you sleeping rough or worried about someone who is? You can help or get help for yourself by making an alert to StreetLink.
StreetLink
Operating in England and Wales, StreetLink is an online platform that connects people sleeping rough to local authorities and outreach teams to access the support they need. This includes anyone who is sleeping outside, preparing to bed down, or sleeping somewhere not designed for habitation, such as a car.
Making an alert is quick and easy and can be done in 3 simple steps:
Locate
Pinpoint a specific location where you have seen the person sleeping rough using our map feature and include a written description of the location.Describe
Provide details on the time the person was sleeping rough at the location and any further information about their appearance that can help identify them.Submit
Once submitted, your alert is automatically sent to the local outreach team in the area.
These teams then attempt to locate the individual, assess their needs, and offer appropriate support services with the aim of ending their homelessness. You can request to receive an update on your alert within 10 working days.
StreetLink itself does not provide direct accommodation or actively search for individuals sleeping rough. Instead, it acts as the link between members of the public and local outreach services to assist those in need of support.
Watch the video How Does StreetLink Work? for more information.
Call 999 if you or the person you are making an alert about are in immediate danger, need medical assistance, are under 18 or are with someone who is under 18.
Visit StreetLink website to make an alertWhat makes a good-quality alert?
When making an alert it is important that you include clear and relevant information to increase the likelihood of outreach teams finding you or the person you are making the alert for.
This includes a clear location description and a clear person description so that outreach teams know exactly where to look to find the person and can easily identify them.
Watch the following videos for more information on what to include in your alert:
If you need substance misuse treatment or advice
If you have a substance misuse issue and are looking for support around this, you can self-refer to Change Grow Live (CGL). They're a local substance misuse service which is free and confidential. It's available for adults, families, carers and affected others.
For more information, please visit the Change Grow Live website.
If you're concerned about your health, speak to your GP and they can refer you to specialist services if necessary.