Putting the paints down for five minutes my attention was drawn to an article in today’s Telegraph. Entitled “Four women on being homeless” it tells of the experiences of four women who found themselves in a homeless situation. The article is interesting because the people and the stories they tell do not fit the stereotypical view of homelessness and explain that more and more people are becoming vulnerable to the threat of homelessness.
Common factors in the stories told are the precariousness of private rental, lack of tenant’s rights and a severe lack of council housing and support. Secure tenancy and a permanent home were once a right, but at now it seems to be becoming more a privilege and a prize.
Homelessness is not just about living and sleeping rough on the streets. Many people, many families are finding themselves in totally unsuitable accommodation very often through no fault of their own. The problem, the threat and fear of homelessness does not go away simply by putting a roof over peoples’ heads. The issue of secure and permanent housing is one that needs to be addressed. Although the stories may seem grim, the resilience and strength of those portrayed in the article does show through, it hasn’t been easy for them. If you want to read the piece for yourself click on the link below.
