Swindon Borough Council has opened ten more emergency bed spaces for people sleeping rough in the town, as part of a £405,000 government-funded support package.
The extra beds are available every night at The Haven Day Centre, which provides support for people experiencing homelessness.
The additional accommodation is part of a wider initiative to help people off the streets and into longer-term housing.
The council has also increased its outreach support, with specialist teams working to identify rough sleepers and connect them with accommodation, healthcare and financial assistance.
Funding for the enhanced services has been provided through the Government’s Routes Off The Street programme.
The Haven Day Centre offers meals, hot drinks, showers, laundry facilities and access to phones and computers, alongside advice and guidance.
On Friday 23 October, the council carried out its annual rough sleeper count, which provides a snapshot of the number of people sleeping on Swindon’s streets.
A total of 12 people were recorded during the exercise in 2025. The results of this year’s count have not yet been announced.
The council says every person identified as sleeping rough in Swindon has been offered accommodation, with support continuing throughout the year.
Its Rough Sleeper Team regularly patrols the town, building relationships with vulnerable people and helping them access appropriate services.
Depending on their circumstances, individuals may be assigned a dedicated case officer, given a personalised housing plan or offered emergency accommodation.
The council’s Homelessness Prevention Team also works with residents at risk of losing their homes, including by negotiating with landlords and family members to resolve housing difficulties.
Councillor Matty Courtliff, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, said: “Behind every person sleeping rough is an individual story and often a complex set of circumstances that have led them to that point.
“That’s why it is so important that support is compassionate, practical and tailored to people’s needs.
“Preventing homelessness is just as important as responding to it. Our teams work every day with residents who are at risk of losing their home, helping them access support before they reach crisis point.
“Whether someone is already sleeping rough or worried about becoming homeless, help is available and I’d encourage anyone who needs support, or who is concerned about somebody sleeping rough, to get in touch as soon as possible.”
The additional emergency accommodation and outreach services will remain available throughout the year.
Anyone who is homeless, facing homelessness or concerned about losing their home can contact the council’s Homelessness Prevention Team on 01793 445500. Residents can also visit the team at Beckhampton Street, Swindon, SN1 2JH, without an appointment.
People concerned about someone sleeping rough can report their concerns through StreetLink, which passes information to local outreach teams.
