Milton Keynes City Council are highlighting the work by outreach workers who have been helping people who have been sleeping rough on city streets.

Over the past week, the city council has provided emergency overnight accommodation to more than 23 people who would otherwise have faced freezing temperatures outdoors.

With temperatures expected to drop further, MK City Council have said that they are reminding local people that StreetLink is the direct way to alert outreach workers to anyone seen sleeping rough. They visit individuals, offer safe accommodation and connect them with essential services.

Since opening a new and expanded facility in Fishermead last year, the city council has helped more than 60 people move from rough sleeping into secure, long‑term accommodation. Many have gone on to secure private rented homes, reconnect with family, or move into permanent council housing.

Kernow Place on Mullion Place provides individual rooms for both men and women, each with their own kitchen and shower. Up to 20 people can stay at any one time, with access to 24‑hour support, including mental health services, drug and alcohol recovery programmes and practical life‑skills training. Being able to stay throughout the day gives residents the space and stability they need to focus on recovery and building independence.

If the centre is ever full, individuals will be provided with alternative emergency accommodation. Typically, it operates close to capacity but with space available.

The city council works year‑round with partners to support vulnerable people who are sleeping rough, helping them move off the streets for good. No one needs money to access the shelter, and while not everyone is ready to accept help immediately, colleagues remain committed to offering support whenever individuals are ready to take the next step.

Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Communities, Cllr Donna Fuller, said, “No one in Milton Keynes should be spending the night on the streets. There is support available, and we want anyone who needs help to reach out. Our teams have been working incredibly hard to make sure people have somewhere safe to stay during this severe winter weather.

“Support is available throughout the year, and we ask residents to contact us if they see someone sleeping rough so we can offer them the help they need as soon as possible.”