HELP is on hand for rough sleepers in the Dudley borough as temperatures plummet this winter.

Dudley Council is urging anyone who sees someone they believe to be sleeping rough to contact the council's homeless team, so the vulnerable person can be helped.

The Dudley Council homeless team respond immediately to all reports of someone sleeping rough and offer support and advice and have information on accommodation that is immediately available to them.

Councillor Gaye Partridge, cabinet member for housing, said: "No one should be sleeping rough in Dudley at any time of year, but as we approach the winter, it really focuses our minds on the issue.

"We’re asking local people to help us by being our eyes and ears and tell us immediately if they know of someone sleeping rough as we want to do everything we can to help them.

"Our officers respond to reports immediately to try and engage with people and provide details of accommodation available to them."

She added: "And to anyone who is worried that they are at risk of losing their home, then please get in touch, talk to the team and they will be able to help and advise.”

To make a report, call Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345.