From now until the end of March 2026, we are working together with churches and partners across Torquay to offer warmth, dignity, and safety to those facing the harsh realities of winter. With the support of Christians Together in Torquay and Torbay United, we’re committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of rough sleepers.

SWEP: Severe Weather Emergency Procotol

SWEP is a locally agreed procedure activated when temperatures drop below 5°C. Its goal is to prevent harm or death among those sleeping rough during extreme weather conditions such as cold and wind.

During SWEP activation, Torbay Council will open the Assembly Room at Torquay's Town Hall, offering emergency shelter for up to 30 rough sleepers.

We will be present to provide:

• Hot drinks and toast
• Compassionate conversation and presence

Torbay Council Officers and professional overnight security will be present to ensure safely for all.

Winter Night Shelter 

From 2 February to 15 March 2026, Upton Vale (UV) and local churches will host a Winter Night Shelter - a place of refuge, nourishment, and rest for those sleeping rough during the coldest and darkness months of the year.

Hosting Schedule and Locations:

• Sunday: UV team at UV (St Marychurch Road, Castle Circus, TQ1 3HY)
• Monday: Home Church team at their church (527 Babbacombe Road, TQ1 1HG)
• Tuesday: To be confirmed
• Wednesday: Hele Road Church team at their church (Hele Road, TQ2 7PP)
• Thursday: To be confirmed
• Friday: To be confirmed
• Saturday: Together Church team at UV (St Marychurch Road, Castle Circus, TQ1 3HY)

Each night, up to 15 guests will receive:

• A hot evening meal
• Hot drinks
• A safe, warm place to sleep
• Access to a shower
• Access to a hairdresser
• Professional overnight security for peace of mind

If you’d like to help, there are many meaningful ways to get involved. You could prepare hot drinks, cook and serve meals, spend time listening and talking with our guests, assist with clearing up after meals, or be part of our prayer team. Volunteer shifts run from 7pm to 10pm each evening or 7am to 8am each morning. To find out more or to sign up, please contact our Supporting Rough Sleepers Leaders Mat Miller (here) or Mark Gridley at markagridley@gmail.com.