Shandypants
Well-known member
Today I was in Preston for the first time in ages, although the following scene could have been played out in any town or city. I parked at Avenham car park and noted the presence of a rough sleeper who looked in a poor state. I checked he was OK and gave him the little change I had, it was only £2 but he was very grateful. We got chatting, he was 59 and been homeless since last October when his landlord kicked him out, his story was grim, he has arthritis and paranoid schizophrenia, but not had any medication for months. I've agreed to get him a waterproof coat and pants and he wept at this point, he's clearly not used to people trying to help. I asked him if he could get into a shelter and he says he hadn't got a phone, it struck me that during the pandemic how would he be able to source help without a phone or email? Just been on Preston councils website to try and get some assistance, I'll see what I can do but I've a feeling I'll be pissing in the wind, I'll do my best.
I've also seen the itv news tonight about the state of social housing, mould everywhere etc.
It struck me that we are failing miserably with our poorest and most vulnerable in society, its disgusting.
The housing shortage is a national disgrace, in 1970 50% of new housing was built by the state. Every new development seems to be 400k 4 bed detached houses, I accept that homelessness will never be fully eradicated but I feel ashamed tonight.
I've also seen the itv news tonight about the state of social housing, mould everywhere etc.
It struck me that we are failing miserably with our poorest and most vulnerable in society, its disgusting.
The housing shortage is a national disgrace, in 1970 50% of new housing was built by the state. Every new development seems to be 400k 4 bed detached houses, I accept that homelessness will never be fully eradicated but I feel ashamed tonight.