Shelter estimates that 354,000 individuals will spend the festive season homeless in England, a figure that has surged by 14% over the past year alone.
With the rise in homelessness, the waste management industry is encountering an increasing number of rough sleepers seeking shelter in waste containers, which poses significant risks when waste is collected.
This winter, organizations are reminded of the dangers associated with homeless individuals and seasonal revellers sleeping in commercial waste containers to escape the cold weather. The number of people taking refuge in waste bins tends to increase during this time of year (70% of encounters occur between January and June). Unfortunately, this has led to fatalities where individuals have either been smothered by the contents of the bin or were unable to escape before the bin was lifted and tipped into the waste collection vehicle.
Individuals are most likely to be found in unlocked bins, typically stored at the rear or side of buildings, primarily in urban areas. This highlights the need for organizations to remain especially vigilant during cold or wet weather conditions.
Rough sleeping constitutes a criminal offense under section 4 of the Vagrancy Act 1824, subject to certain conditions, and is often associated with activities such as begging, street drinking, and anti-social behavior. Many individuals experiencing homelessness have complex needs and may develop issues with drugs and alcohol, leading to increased interactions with the criminal justice system.
How to Protect Your Organisation
- Lock and secure waste containers whenever possible.
- Store containers in well-lit, secure areas.
- Report any instances of individuals sleeping in or near waste containers.
- Waste management companies should take extra precautions when collecting waste.
- Avoid storing items like stacked pallets or boxes near waste containers, as they could be used as steps to access them.
- Learn to identify signs of rough sleepers in waste containers, such as open lids or dispersed waste.
Action Required
Organisations concerned about someone sleeping rough should contact StreetLink at 0300 500 0914 or visit www.streetlink.org.uk.
Anti-social behavior or related criminal activity should be reported to the Police.
For further assistance and support, please contact:
Jonathan Gladwin, Director – Security and Risk Management Services; or your nominated Anti-Crime Specialist.