A council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) for those sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness.

It comes as the first snowfall hit Lowestoft this lunchtime (Wednesday).

As temperatures plummet, a yellow weather warning for ice has been issued for parts of Suffolk.

The warning, which is in place between 4pm on Wednesday and 10am on Thursday, covers the north and east areas of the county. 

Places such as Southwold and Lowestoft have been included in the weather warning, as the Met Office warns that ice could lead to some travel disruption.

East Suffolk Council has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) as part of efforts to help support vulnerable people sleeping rough.East Suffolk Council has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) as part of efforts to help support vulnerable people sleeping rough. (Image: East Suffolk Council)

And as the region is braced for a cold snap, East Suffolk Council has today (Wednesday) activated the SWEP as part of efforts to help support vulnerable people sleeping rough.

A council spokesman said: "The protocol enables anyone sleeping rough in East Suffolk to access emergency accommodation and support during bouts of exceptionally cold weather.

"It will remain in place until being reviewed next Monday."

If you suspect someone is sleeping rough, the quickest way to report it to the council’s rough sleeper service is by using Streetlink online.

The council spokesman added: "Staff will receive an alert, speak to the person if they haven’t already, and try to get them the help they need."

Alternatively, you can also email housing.needs@eastsuffolk.gov.uk or via roughsleepercoordinator@eastsuffolk.gov.uk