Oxford City Council has issued advice for anyone who wants to help people experiencing homelessness during the hot weather.

The Met Office is forecasting high day and night-time temperatures that are expected to peak at 31 degrees on Friday (17 June).

On Friday Homeless Oxfordshire will open O’Hanlon House to anyone experiencing rough sleeping who wants to get out of the sun.

A group of Oxford churches has also opened The Living Room, a referral-only service for up to six people which opens on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

As well as respite from the heat, The Living Room offers free internet access, shower and laundry facilities, hot and cold drinks and snacks.

Oxford Street Population Outreach Team (OxSPOT) will provide water, cups and sunscreen to people on the streets during its daily rounds, and water is also available at day services.

As part of its campaign to reduce the use of single-use plastic water bottles, Refill has set up a network of refill stations throughout the city.

Participating organisations and businesses display a Refill sticker in their windows.

You can find a full list of Refill stations by downloading the Refill app.

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If you are concerned about someone rough sleeping, contact Oxford Street Population Outreach Team (OxSPOT) during office hours on 07590 862049 or email Outreach.Oxford@mungos.org

You can also report a concern through the StreetLink website or app, or by calling 0300 500 0914.

If you believe someone’s health is in immediate danger, please call 999.

People experiencing homelessness can avoid the sun and get food, showers and shade at day services at The Gatehouse at 10 Woodstock Road.

The Porch Day Centre in Magdalen Road is currently operating a restricted service which means it is not open for general drop-in.

If you would like to give items like water, sunscreen, sunglasses or hats to people experiencing rough sleeping, you can find details on the Oxfordshire Homelessness Movement website. 

Councillor Linda Smith, cabinet member for housing, said: “While many of us are enjoying sunny weather, the heat can pose particular risks to people experiencing rough sleeping.

“Nobody should have to sleep rough in Oxford and we believe the best way of achieving this is to support people to come inside where services can engage with them to help them off the streets.”