BBC Interview: Helping people off the streets during heatwaves
19 August 2026
Area Manager Charley Matthews spoke about how extreme heat affects people sleeping rough, the support Thames Reach provides and how the public can help
Last week, Charley Matthews, Area Manager at Thames Reach, spoke to Nikki Bedi on BBC Radio London about our work supporting people sleeping rough during heatwaves.
This summer has been particularly challenging, with repeated spells of very hot weather since May. While high temperatures can be uncomfortable for everyone, people sleeping rough face additional risks when they have limited access to shade, drinking water and other ways to stay cool.
During the interview, Charley spoke about how Thames Reach teams continue to work with people on the streets throughout the year, helping them access the support and accommodation they need to move away from rough sleeping as quickly as possible.
She also explained some of the ways members of the public can help if they are concerned about someone sleeping rough during hot weather, including offering water where appropriate and using StreetLink to connect someone with local outreach services.
Charley also highlighted the importance of public support for organisations like Thames Reach. Our teams are out every day, building relationships with people sleeping rough and helping them take the steps towards a life away from the streets.
Heatwaves and extreme weather can bring greater attention to rough sleeping, but the need for this work continues all year round. Donations and support from the public help us continue providing practical, sustained support to people experiencing homelessness across London.
Listen to Charley’s full interview with Nikki Bedi on BBC Radio London below.
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