I haven't read the article and won't - media always pick up on the negative no matter what or whom its about.
As for street people - I have to say I haven't met a nicer bunch of polite people. Take the time to get to know them and your rewarded with a smile/good morning/help if needed etc You get the odd ones who aren't very nice but you get them in all walks of life.
Some are begging for money that is used for drugs yes, I won't depute that. Many aren't tho!
Some of these guys/women's life stories are horrendous, they die young and usually alone, its rare for anyone to attend their funerals, nobody picks up their ashes - they aren't missed! The funeral service is a few minutes and first on the list at 9am - if nobody turns up its a few words and the button pressed, forgotten forever. If they are in a hostel - not even a staff member attends. Most of the time any family they have don't know they have died. We have had 12 deaths in the local hostel this year - if it was a care home it would be investigated. Because they are street drinkers/users/big issue sellers etc its ignored!
We have a number that work voluntary with us doing odd jobs etc in return for being treated with respect, tea on tap, lunch, and to feel accepted and a part of society. They are a few rules, don't turn up drunk, stoned or with a can/bottle of drink etc. It keeps them off the streets doing something worthwhile and they turn up on time, normally before I'm in
Some truly want to turn their lives around and aren't always given the opportunity because they are seen as the dregs of society.
Don't write them all off because of one headline, they are some good people out there! Next time you see someone begging - smile and say good morning instead of walking by!
