For years, Birmingham has grappled with homelessness, rife within many streets of Birmingham, countless individuals have had to endure the harsh reality of sleeping rough in Birmingham. The problem continues in every city in England, with homelessness on the rise by 27%, according to Crisis in February 2024.
Yet, instead of addressing the root of the issue, the government’s latest proposal threatens to criminalise those already marginalised, and vulnerable population. Sunak has proposed to criminalise homelessness, in a radical attempt to cut down Britain's homeless population.
At the heart of this contentious bill lies a critical question of compassion and humanity within our government: should we punish those already struggling to survive?
For many residents in Birmingham, the answer is clear. It is not online morally reprehensible to criminalise homelessness, it is an entirely misguided attempt to metaphorically sweep a very complex issue under the rug. Many are saying that this new bill shows that the government is failing to recognise and address the systemic factors such as poverty, lack of housing and inadequate social support.
In Birmingham, where the spirit of community often runs deep, there is no room left for indifference and cruelty towards our most vulnerable members of society. As we stand on the precipice of a decision that will define our government and our country, to the world, for years to come, many are unhappy, wanting to address the issue with compassion and humanity.
(Written 10 Oct 2024, republished 20 Dec 2024)
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