HOMELESSNESS charity Simon Community and Streetwork Scotland are advising the public on how to look out for the signs of hypothermia.

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.

Scotland’s Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP has thrown his support behind the Stay Warm Stay Safe campaign.

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

"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.”

Call the Simon Community Street Team on in Glasgow 0800 027 7466 or in Edinburgh call 0808 178 2323.

A pocket size guide detailing the symptoms of hypothermia - produced thanks to the kind support of Scottish adventure holiday specialist, Macs Adventure - will also be carried by on duty police officers.