Extreme weather is putting London's rough sleepers at serious risk, as heatwaves become more frequent and intense due to climate change. Tom, a man in his 60s who has been homeless for years, described the ordeal: “You’ve just got to bear it. It’s like being in a hot country. It drains you.” The city’s concrete infrastructure and lack of tree cover amplify the heat, making survival even harder for those without shelter.
Why London's Rough Sleepers Are More Vulnerable to Heat
Dr. Jennie Leggat, a former policy fellow at the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Science and Policy, explains that people sleeping rough face far greater exposure to extreme temperatures. Unlike housed individuals, they cannot easily access cooling spaces, air conditioning, or even shade. Outreach workers from charities like Thames Reach and St Mungo’s are providing extra support—handing out water, conducting welfare checks, and directing people to cool spaces. But demand is rising as the city endures repeated heatwaves.
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The Impact of Urban Heat Islands
“The city is not built for heat,” says Josie Ashdown, lead manager at Thames Reach. “The concrete makes it hotter here than probably anywhere else in the country, and there’s hardly any tree cover.” This phenomenon, known as the urban heat island effect, can make London feel several degrees warmer than surrounding rural areas. For rough sleepers, escaping the heat is rarely straightforward.
| Factor | General Population | Rough Sleepers |
|---|---|---|
| Access to shade | High – homes, parks, shops | Low – limited to underpasses, doorways |
| Hydration availability | Easy – taps, bottles, stores | Difficult – reliant on outreach or public fountains |
| Temperature regulation | Air conditioning or fans | None – only clothing and cardboard |
| Health risk during heatwave | Moderate – heat exhaustion possible | Extreme – heatstroke and dehydration common |
Key Takeaways for Supporting Homeless Individuals in Extreme Weather
- Donate water, sunscreen, and hats to local homeless charities.
- Volunteer with outreach teams to distribute supplies and check on vulnerable people.
- Advocate for more public water fountains and shaded benches in urban areas.
- Spread awareness about the unique dangers of heat exposure for rough sleepers.
- Support policies that aim to end rough sleeping, as pledged by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
FAQ
How does extreme heat affect rough sleepers?
Rough sleepers have no means to cool down, leading to dehydration, heatstroke, and in severe cases, death. The urban heat island effect compounds these risks, especially in cities like London.
What can I do to help homeless people during a heatwave?
Carry extra bottled water and offer it to individuals you see on the street. Also, donate to or volunteer with local outreach organizations that provide cooling supplies and welfare checks.
Are there cooling shelters for rough sleepers in London?
Yes, some charities and local councils open designated cool spaces during heatwaves. Outreach teams actively direct rough sleepers to these locations, but more facilities are needed.
As climate change continues to drive extreme weather, the need for immediate and long-term solutions for rough sleepers grows urgent. By understanding the risks and taking action, we can help protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
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