IT WAS good to read the Echo article (February 8) about 12 homeless people finding overnight shelter at St Mary's Church in Weymouth.
It would have been even better if the heading had not been "Homeless choose streets", and the positive news had been revealed before readers reached the 22nd line of the article, which was mainly taken up with the refusal of two out of fourteen rough sleepers to use the night shelter.
Yes, for whatever reasons, some homeless people will not engage with support that is offered, and your article was right to acknowledge this.
However, it did seem a pity that this was the main focus of your report.
There are still some very negative ideas about the homeless, including the assumption that being on the streets could not possibly happen to "normal" people, and thus must be a bizarre lifestyle choice, meaning (conveniently) that no-one else has any responsibility for helping rough sleepers, and they would not be "grateful", so why bother?
Happily, your article on February 9 about Phulmaya Bhusal, who is planning to raise money for Bus Shelter Dorset, was far more positive and uplifting. It is vital to remember that the sad fact that some cannot be helped is not a reason to deny help to everyone.
CHRISTINE TEMPEST
Romulus Close, Dorchester
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