As temperatures plummet the charity is asking members of the public to help

A charity has launched an awareness bid in order to cut hypothermia deaths among the homeless on Scotland’s streets.

The Simon Community and Streetwork Scotland launched their campaign handing out booklets detailing the signs of hypothermia to passing commuters at Edinburgh’s Waverley station.

As temperatures plummet the charity is asking members of the public to call their free phone numbers if they see a homeless person who is shivering, has cold or pale skin, is slurring their speech, is breathing fast or appears tired or confused.

The charities were joined at the launch by Scottish Government housing minister Kevin Stewart.

He said: “We want everyone to have a safe, secure, settled home, which is why we are working to end homelessness and rough sleeping.

“We know for some people the reasons for rough sleeping are complex and so I am grateful to all the front line workers who day in, day out, go that extra mile to ensure people get support in the right place, at the right time to support people.

“It is vital that we know how to effectively help people on the streets to keep safe – especially as the temperatures start to drop. Hypothermia is extremely serious and this campaign has the potential to save lives by highlighting the symptoms and what can be done to help.”