Rough sleepers
If you encounter a rough sleeper, the best way to help is to reporting this to us (if you can). You could try to get the rough sleeper to engage with our services (or one of the many other services and agencies who offer support), if it's safe to do so - always think about your own safety and that of others around you.
Always be mindful that the person may have additional support needs - for example:
- mental health
- learning difficulty
- drug or alcohol related illness
Don't be tempted to hand over money - this for many can do more harm than good. Money is often used to fund a habit of alcohol or substance misuse. You could also put yourself at risk of being targeted by other people approaching you for money.
How to get help or report a rough sleeper
To report a rough sleeper to us, email housingoptions@rutland.gov.uk or call 01572 722 577 during our office hours.
Out of hours, you can call Harborough Lifeline on 01858 464 499.
You can also report a rough sleeper online (24 hours a day) through StreetLink.
If you need housing support, advice or are at risk of homelessness, the P3 service can provide up to 18 months support to help you avoid homelessness or maintain your housing. They can also help with:
- crisis situations
- sustaining tenancies
- gaining independent living skills - for example paying bills and keeping appointments
To find out more, visit the P3 website or email RutlandFS@p3charity.org.
You can also contact Leicestershire Police online or call 101.