Westminster have proposed a new byelaw to ban rough sleeping and the provision of free food in pubic spaces in the borough. A mass sleep-in is being organised to protest the ban, which is due to take place at 7pm at Trafalgar Square this Saturday, 26th March.

A variety of organisations including Housing Justice and Liberty have voiced opposition to this byelaw in a public letter, which reads: "To argue that someone sleeps in a shop doorway because there is a free sandwich on offer is plainly ridiculous. Most of those sleeping on the streets do not do so by choice; rather, they are simply not being offered the accommodation or other assistance they need. Instead of banning rough sleeping and the provision of free food, Westminster council should commit itself to supporting the efforts of voluntary and community groups providing services to homeless and vulnerable people." ( http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/mar/17/homeless-rough-sleeping-free-food-bylaw)
Soup runs, for example, offer much needed nourishment to those sleeping on the streets and can be a point of contact which can lead to longer-term support and communication with supportive organisations, if this is available.
The suggestion that rough sleeping is supported by soup runs seems to suggest that there are copious services for rough sleepers to access - however, many of these services are facing huge financial cuts.
A nourishing meal can help someone through the day and provide some energy needed to take on life's challenges. If this charitable act is penalised, it is difficult to see how we are encouraging rough sleepers to access support. It is a tangible, meaningful form of outreach which can make a huge difference.

For more information on the plans for the peaceful protest on 26th March, you can visit  http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=119897201417731&notif_t=event_wall#wall_posts.