SOUTHAMPTON city's homelessness chief has announced that extra beds will be available for rough sleepers during cold weather.

As previously reported Storm Caroline is set to descend on the UK, bringing winds, snow and freezing temperatures on Friday and Saturday.

Now Southampton City Council, working with Two Saints, Society of St James and the Salvation Army, say they are extending support made available all year round by the Street Homeless Prevention team at the council.

A council spokesperson said outreach staff have been engaging with rough sleepers to encourage them to take up the offer and checking with them on a daily basis while also team working to help people into longer term accommodation solutions and to enrol them on support programmes.

City homelessness boss Councillor Dave Shields said: “It’s great news that we’ve managed to secure this extra provision for anyone sleeping rough during the cold weather and I know our teams will be working hard to get people to take up the offer.

"As the cold weather bites I urge everyone to look out for their most vulnerable neighbours, friends and families to ensure they stay warm and well.

“If you have any concerns over someone sleeping on the streets, then you should report your concern via StreetLink in the first instance on 03005000914 or email them on info@streetlink.org.uk.

"You can also contact our Street Homelessness Team direct by emailing your concerns for any rough sleeper via streethomeless@southampton.gov.uk."

There is also help at hand for anyone worried about keeping their home warm this winter.

You can contact Southampton Healthy Homes for support and guidance or contact the Environment Centre (tEC) on Freephone 0800 804 8601 (Mon-Fri 9-5) or email keepwarm@environmentcentre.com.

The NHS also advises that if you're not very mobile, are 65 or over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease, you should heat your home to at least 18C (65F).

They say you should keep your bedroom at 18C all night if you can – and keep the bedroom window closed but during the day you may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer than 18C.

To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), babies should sleep in rooms heated to between 16C and 20C.

If you're under 65, healthy and active, you can safely have your home cooler than 18C, if you're comfortable.

Draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to block out draughts and NHS advises to get your heating system checked regularly by a qualified professional

The Echo asked the council how many extra beds are being made available but have yet to receive a reply.