Homeless sleep rough in zero temperatures on Huddersfield’s streets

Dec 6 2010 by Anne-Marie Senior, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

HOMELESS people are continuing to sleep rough on Huddersfield’s streets despite the bitter cold.

Weather forecasters must predict that temperatures will drop below 0°C for three consecutive nights before Kirklees Council steps in to offer people a bed for the night.

Six people were given shelter by the council last week as local forecasters predicted a run of Arctic temperatures.

But many more opted to stay outdoors and brave the cold, too afraid to let their bodies get used to the comfort of warmth again before returning to the streets.

It’s the shocking reality seen all too often by staff at Huddersfield’s Methodist Mission Cafe.

Project manager Jacqui Goff said: “I worry and it really bothers me when I see the weather forecast for snow and ice.

“It is not just about the inconvenience of people getting out and about in the snow.

“It is remembering that there are people living on the streets.

“Some may even have accommodation but can’t afford their gas and electricity.

“Or if they pay for that, then it is at the expense of something else they need.”

Despite the arctic weather, the Mission Cafe managed to open as normal every day last week from 9.30am to 2pm.

The centre is open to the whole community and has become known as a safe place for people in crisis to turn when other agencies cannot help.