February 10, 2020 10.30 am This story is over 49 months old

Lincoln homeless face “awful night” in grips of Storm Ciara

Many refused the emergency accommodation on offer
Outreach workers tried to help the homeless. Photo: Let Them Eat Cake

Lincoln’s homeless and rough sleepers braved an “awful night” in Storm Ciara, but many refused emergency accommodation.

Outreach workers went out on Sunday evening, when the Met Office issued “danger to life” warnings, to give the homeless a warm meal.

Let Them Eat Cake (LTEC) described the night as ‘awful’, but said that the city’s homeless were “in good spirits” despite the weather.

Many of the homeless tried to find shelter near the Lincoln Central Market but some of their sleeping bags were ruined by the rain.

When the weather is particularly bad, a Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) will be put in place to protect vulnerable people on the streets.

The team out on Sunday evening. Photo: Let Them Eat Cake

However, the team from LTEC said: “We signposted people to the designated SWEP accommodation but most didn’t take up the offer for quite a few reasons.

“New sleeping bags were given out in exchange for their sodden ones. Despite the weather they were in good spirit and the hot meals were soon eaten.

“What an awful night to be out at least we could come home and have a hot bath and a warm bed but for our street friends that is something they can only dream about.”

LTEC also urged people to sponsor their outreaches and said it costs around £40 each time they need to head out.

It was a tough weekend for many, with homes, businesses and a 176-year-old windmill all suffering in the high winds.