Pensioners are among an estimated 30 rough sleepers putting their lives at risk by sleeping outdoors in plummeting sub zero temperatures across the district, it has been revealed.

A cold weather provision team, created by Bradford Council to offer warmth to rough sleepers when temperatures hit zero, has already been implemented five times since October 1.

But just six of the estimated 30 rough sleepers have accessed the help, which includes sleeping in communal areas in hostels, so far.

But as temperatures plummet even further, one charity, Hope Housing fears that lives could be at risk.

Worries are exacerbated as this is the first winter since the Salvation Army’s Lifehouse in Leeds Road, which had capacity for 63 homeless people, closed its doors in May.

Adam Clark, a project co-ordinator at Hope Housing, which provides accommodation in volunteers' homes, said lives could “definitely” be at risk, adding that he was helping two pensioners in their 60s. One of them was made homeless after falling behind with his rent payments.

“Homelessness is a big pressing issue,” he said. “The whole thing behind the cold weather provision is to prevent rough sleepers dying on the streets.

“The Salvation Army and hostels play a vital part and Lawley House closing does have an impact because neighbouring districts without provision do turn to Bradford for help. We have to rely on private landlords now, whereas the hostel would have taken anybody referred to them.”

Next week all charities and volunteer groups will do a homeless count to give an estimated figure of rough sleepers to the council, but last year’s figure is understood to have been 30.

A Salvation Army spokesman said that they were currently in the middle of an in-depth review to see how to best utilise the facilities at Lawley House.