Oxfordshire Homeless Movement

Cold Weather SWEP Explained

SWEP stands for Severe Weather Emergency Protocol. It is based on the MET Office weather forecast.

Weather might be "severe" if:

• the temperature falls to zero degrees Celsius or below
• there is snow on the ground,
• it is a warmer night during a freezing spell
• the "feels like" temperature is significantly below zero

Cold weather SWEP in Oxford city (2024-25):

• SWEP will be activated by the city council if the above conditions are met
• St Mungo’s will co-ordinate access to SWEP allocating individuals to accommodation during the day
• St Mungo’s will ensure that all clients who access SWEP—if not already known—are offered a full assessment of their needs and support in order to be offered longer term solutions to their homelessness

See also

"I need accommodation in very cold weather"