Homeless Not Hopeless

Back in March 2013 I set out to photograph some of the homeless that live on the streets of Manchester, whilst on a weekend vacation with my family. It was early one morning whilst making my way to the train station. A homeless man (Ashely), wrapped in a sleeping bag sat against a wall as the world woke up around him. He looked cold. I was cold in my jacket, after the luxury of a night in a warm house, in my own bed.

I found Ashley in the same place as I had two mornings before (Picadilly, Manchester. Where I brought him a drink on my way to the train station). He had been out on the streets all night, where he struggles to sleep and keep himself warm.I spoke to him before taking his photograph where he told me that because he is originally from Southampton he cannot find refuge in homeless shelters in Manchester.A series of failed relationships have left Ashley homeless. He was sent to prison on August 18^th 2012 until September 10^th for begging on the streets.


I’ve been told that addiction to alcohol and drugs brings a release from the pain and memories that brought about these circumstances. Most said they would rather not be that way, but it helps to numb the existence that they live. Homelessness becomes a vicious circle that then becomes harder and harder to break. “In the face of impossible living conditions, and the only focus of each day is survival. The days become weeks and month, and the very idea of re-entering mainstream society is put firmly to the back of their minds.” (http://www.guardian.co.uk/housing-network/2012/dec/31/homelessness-rough-sleeping-in-winter) Many of them seemed like they just wanted someone to talk to and listen for a few minutes. Is that so bad? Maybe next time you see someone on the street, find that change in your pocket, buy a coffee for them and find a few minutes in your busy schedule to listen to what they have to say. I did, and it changed my entire perspective on the issue.