By Phil Conn2023-11-06T17:22:00
Suella Braverman has announced plans to restrict the use of tents by homeless people, arguing that people see it as a “lifestyle choice”. But punishing people for seeking refuge is not the answer to solving our homelessness crisis, says Phil Conn
In the many years that I’ve been supporting people experiencing homelessness, the term “lifestyle choice” is one I have heard too often. Often, it is used to shift the burden of responsibility for someone’s situation away from an organisation or public service onto the individual themselves – and, by doing this, absolving themselves of any obligation to help.
If we can say that someone has chosen to live a certain way, we can therefore say that the consequences of such a choice are theirs to contend with.
I find that conclusion problematic.
2024-10-10T08:41:00Z By Jon Kuhrt
On World Homeless Day, Jon Kuhrt gives some practical advice on how Christians should respond to the homelessness crisis in order to help rather than hinder
2023-11-15T10:16:00Z By Tim Farron MP
Suella Braverman was dismissed from government for stoking division in an already divided society. Christians are called to resist the easy option of silos, says Tim Farron MP, instead choosing to walk a path of peace through the culture wars
2023-11-10T15:53:00Z By Tim Bechervaise
This year’s Christmas ads cover a myriad of emotions from joy to heartache, says Tim Bechervaise. From the controversial M&S offering to Shelter’s heartbreaking reminder that all is not sparkly and bright for everyone this festive season, here’s his analysis of what Christians can learn from them
2025-07-18T12:53:00Z By Andy Flannagan
Andy Flannagan introduces a new song for the church, which invites Christians to relinquish control and submit to God’s authority
2025-07-18T10:29:00Z By Billy Hallowell
It’s easy to celebrate when high-profile people express faith in Christ. But what about when they falter? We should be slow to judge and quick to pray for them, says Billy Hallowell
2025-07-18T08:11:00Z By Chris Sinkinson
More than 1,000 people from five different churches gathered on Bournemouth beach last weekend. As 92 people came forward to be baptised, local church leader Chris Sinkinson says that it’s another example of the changing spiritual atmosphere in Britain
Site powered by Webvision Cloud