Show some compassion (From South Wales Argus)

Show some compassion

3:29pm Monday 18th March 2013 in Letters

I WOULD like to respond to Norman Jones of Risca’s letter (March 12) condemning Caerphilly council’s provision for homeless people.

Mr Jones displays a complete lack of understanding and compassion with regard to the homelessness. He seems to believe that homeless people are work-shy and undeserving. The reality is that anyone can become homeless through no fault of their own. Losing your job, rising rents, relationship break-down, mental illness, sexual/physical and mental abuse are just a few reasons why people become homeless. All three main political parties, religious and no religious groups and county councils across the UK all recognise the need to support homeless people. Supporting people to make the move from homelessness is money well spent, and the mark of a civilised society. I am proud to be a member of a council which takes seriously its statutory responsibilities to help and support vulnerable people. After all Newport and Cardiff have many hostels, which currently house people from Caerphilly.

Cllr Nigel Dix Blackwood