Why does the weather matter?
Shelter is a fundamental human right, and even more vital during periods of hot, cold, wet or stormy weather. But for people experiencing homelessness, they literally can’t escape climate and weather impacts.
Despite mounting concerns about climate change and efforts to mitigate it, many of the current policies, strategies and responses do not take into account the additional vulnerability of people without a home, or people living in substandard housing that cannot be heated or cooled.
As the frequency and magnitude of extreme weather events increases worldwide, there is an urgent need for efforts to be made to reduce the impact of climate change related weather on homeless individuals.
“The weather is awful. The impact on the health and wellbeing of the rough sleeping community is just not acceptable.”
- Sharon Gough | CEO Indigo Junction
“The main thing that we needed was just somewhere to go. Because when you’re stuck outside 24/7 every day, you can’t hide from the sun, you can’t hide from the people, you can’t get away from the cold. You’re just out there, mate. It’s harsh, it really is.”
- Rockingham person experiencing homelessness
What are we doing about it?
Under the Weather research, evidence generation and advocacy
Our team is collaborating with some homelessness services and local governments to capture the impacts of weather and climate on the health and day to day survival of people experiencing homelessness. Click the icon above for more information, including how to get involved.
Forging connections with others who want to tackle these issues
Across Australia and in WA, there is growing momentum to raise awareness and implement actions to reduce the impacts of climate on people experiencing homelessness. email us if you would like to join these efforts or be kept in the loop. home2health@nd.edu.au
Cooling Hubs during heatwaves
Sydney is leading the way with innovative cooling hubs that are deployed during periods of acute or extended heat in summer. This evolved out of recognition of the effects of heat and heat stress on health, and has been co-designed with people with lived experience. Our team is excited to be now collaborating with this exciting initiative that is being jointly lead by City of Sydney, St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, and University of Sydney.
