As darker, colder, and wetter nights set in, we’ve received more reports from suppliers and industry colleagues about people taking shelter or sleeping in and around waste bins.
With surging homelessness in the UK, there has been an increase in people taking shelter and sleeping rough in waste bins. Unfortunately, this has resulted in several deaths of vulnerable people over the years. It’s not just homelessness that forces people to take shelter in bins. One in 10 cases of someone sheltering in a bin involves people on a night out.
Homelessness is a serious issue that we should all be aware of, both professionally and privately. We all need to play a part in helping others stay safe, everyone deserves to have a roof over their head, so please be alert to those in need this winter
If you have a waste bin or large container on your premises please:
Check, Look, Think
- Check your locks on bins – are they broken/working
- Is there evidence of someone using the bin as shelter, take a look around the bin ie, makeshift steps, open lids
- Raise awareness amongst staff by creating a company campaign.
If you suspect or are concerned about someone sleeping rough, please contact your local authority or one of these charitable organisation for advice.