Birmingham {Viewpoint} Blog

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

So, I’ll be upfront with you from the off… This subject is going to cost you money! But only about £3. And it could be the most important £3 you spend all month to someone…

It’s difficult to go anywhere in Birmingham without seeing signs of homelessness – be it the city centre, outside a supermarket or just a local park – there’s evidence that not everyone in Birmingham is as fortunate as others. So this month’s subject is all about giving something back to those who don’t have much.

I’m not one for giving money to ‘people on the street’ as I don’t agree with encouraging drug abuse, alcoholism, gambling etc… but what I do like to do is buy a hot drink or some food for them. Most supermarkets (Tesco & Sainsburys for definite) and some other shops (Boots) offer a meal deal for a mere £3, where you can buy a sandwich, drink and either fruit, crisps or chocolate bar.

The idea for this month is for us all to start the year off with a bit of generosity by buying a homeless person something to eat and drink. In return, you take their photograph. I’m aware that this could be deemed as quite condescending to the homeless person, so please be sensitive to their situation when approaching them. Take the time to get to know them and maybe get a little understanding as to how their circumstances have come about. If you want to include this when submitting your photo, then I’ll find a way of adding the information to the photo. Having spoken to a couple of homeless people about this subject, most have been very welcoming of it. One was a bit curious as to where the photos would be published, but once this was explained to him, he was fine with it – so I’d definitely suggest taking the time to explain the project / subject in full to them.

It goes without saying that at no point do I want you to put yourself in any danger, so please stay in well populated areas at all times during this project and only take part if you are keeping yourself 100% safe…