A new 'cold weather provision' plan by the Royal Borough aims to ensure that rough sleepers in Windsor can find shelter.

The authority is promising 'a clear pathway from sleeping rough, to a shelter, to the council’s support services and into longer-term accommodation'.

Cllr Ross McWilliams, lead member for housing, said: “As the newly appointment lead member for housing, I am determined to ensure that we deliver a comprehensive package of cold weather support based on the core principles of compassion, thoroughness and cooperation, including a focus on delivering long term outcomes and actually helping people off the streets.

“Our new approach will provide bespoke packages of support to individuals sleeping rough. We hope people will fully engage with this big offer of help. The approach and the assessment will ensure the offer is appropriate to the individual rough sleeper. The first 10 days working with the rough sleeper are crucial to ensure the roles of each agency are clearly defined and the expectations are managed."

The new Cold Weather Provision is designed to see the Royal Borough working with homeless charities and other partner organisations. It aims to ensure that all rough sleepers are assessed by an experienced outreach team within 10 days of coming to the council's attention.

Anyone at risk of sleeping rough on the streets should go to the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead offices in the Town Hall in Maidenhead or York House in Windsor for advice and support, or call the housing duty team on 01628 683 803. Anyone who becomes homeless when the offices are closed should contact the council's Emergency Duty Team on 01344 786543.

If you see a rough sleeper you can also call 0300 500 0914 or visit Streetlink giving the details of the rough sleeper and they will notify the relevant local authority.