“MP Suella Braverman blames homelessness on ‘lifestyle choices'”

UK charities are calling on the home secretary to urgently reverse a plan to ban tents used by rough sleepers.

Several UK charities have come together to implore the home secretary to reverse a proposed ban on tents used by rough sleepers. The charities argue that such a ban would exacerbate the already dire homelessness crisis in the country.

The plea comes as the UK government is drafting legislation to tackle the issue of rough sleeping. The proposed ban on tents is seen as a part of this effort. However, the charities contend that the ban would only serve to further marginalize and harm vulnerable individuals who lack access to stable housing.

Rough sleeping, or sleeping on the streets, has been a persistent issue in the UK for years. According to official figures, the number of people sleeping rough has steadily increased over the past decade. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem, with job losses and economic hardship pushing more people into homelessness.

Charity organizations, such as Shelter, Crisis, and Homeless Link, argue that banning tents would not address the root causes of homelessness nor provide viable alternatives for those without shelter. They believe that the focus should instead be on increasing support services, affordable housing options, and mental health resources for rough sleepers.

The charities highlight the importance of harm reduction strategies and assert that tents offer basic protection and privacy for homeless individuals. They argue that instead of banning tents, efforts should be made to ensure that those sleeping rough have access to safe and secure temporary accommodation.

The UK government has yet to respond to the plea from the charities. However, with homelessness numbers on the rise and the winter months approaching, the issue of rough sleeping remains a pressing concern that requires urgent attention and comprehensive solutions.