A WINTER shelter for rough sleepers is about to open in Weymouth.

It will be run by two charities and local churches and will be available for eight weeks from January 21st.

It comes after two periods of severe weather last year and a growing number of people locally sleeping rough.

Figures before councillors next week show that rought sleepers have more than tripled locally in the space of four years.

A 'snapshot' count on one night in 2014 found eight rough sleepers in West Dorset, Weymouth and Portland and North Dorset. In 2018 a total of 29 were found – 10 in West Dorset, 18 in Weymouth and Portland and one in North Dorset.

Local councils say around many of those counted have a long term history of sleeping rough.

In a report to councillors on January 22 the reasons for not having a permanent home vary from area to area locally – in West Dorset 'parental eviction' and violent or non-violent breakdown of a relationship are the main reasons, while in Weymouth and Portland the main reason is the ending of a shorthold tenancy, followed by parental eviction and then other relatives no longer being able to provide accommodation.

Many of those sleeping rough have mental health issues and problems with drink or drugs, according to the report before West Dorset's overview and scrutiny committee.

The report says that this year a winter shelter is being set up in Weymouth by Julian House and The Lantern, working with four local churches, for times of extreme weather. This is expected to be open for an eight-week period from January 21st.

The report says that this came about after two periods of severe weather last year. It was felt better to bring people together, rather than in bed and breakfast accommodation, so that services could come to one place to offer help to individuals.

The Winter Shelter will be staffed by volunteers and two paid workers. The paid workers will do 10 hour shifts, one to cover the day and one to cover overnight. Money was secured from the Government for £15,000 to pay for the workers and £5,000 through a charitable donation from Nationwide Building Society, which will pay for beds, sleeping bags and boxes.