“I felt like a second-class citizen”: A glimpse into the daily hostility faced by people who are homeless
Last week I was given an insight into what life is like for people experiencing homelessness – an experience that will stay with me.
While filming for Porchlight’s upcoming Christmas fundraising campaign in Canterbury, my dog Tillie and I acted as rough sleepers.
Not long after we’d put down our bags near a closed pub, the manager came out and abruptly asked us to move on. We explained that we were filming along the street for a homelessness charity’s fundraising campaign.
“Not outside my pub though,” was his response.
He didn’t want us - or our “homelessness” - anywhere near his business. If this was how he spoke to people acting as rough sleepers, I can only imagine how he treats those who have no choice but to sleep on the streets night after night.
In those short hours, I felt vulnerable and judged
We then set up in the doorway of a closed-down shop. The floor was filthy and cold but even worse was the reaction of people walking past. Some stared, intrigued. Some looked away. One woman tutted loudly with disgust.
No one stopped or smiled. No one asked if we were OK. I felt like a second-class citizen - as if I had no right to be seen or exist alongside other people.
In those short hours, I felt real discomfort; vulnerable and judged, even though I had colleagues nearby and knew I would be going home to warmth and safety later that day. For people who are homeless, this is their reality every single day.
As we filmed, we searched for the kinds of places where people are forced to bed down each night. We found dark, dirty doorways open to the elements and exposed to abuse; cold underpasses that felt unsafe even in broad daylight; and park benches that were uncomfortable and painfully public. I couldn’t imagine trying to sleep in any of these spots at night. It must be terrifying.
Feeling like I didn’t belong anywhere helped me understand why so many people, especially women, move away from busy areas.
Not because they want to be isolated, but because safety can sometimes be found in the quiet corners - away from the stares and judgement.
It made me realise how easily people can lose their sense of dignity when the world stops treating them with compassion.
No one chooses to be homeless. Behind every person you see sleeping outside is a story of hardship, whether that be a relationship breakdown, bereavement, trauma, job loss or poor mental health.
Unfortunately, when you’re met with constant hostility, you start to lose trust in others and stop asking for help. Your mental health declines, and you withdraw further from society.
That’s why it’s so important to challenge the attitudes that allow this to happen. Compassion and understanding can make the difference between someone staying hidden and someone accepting help.
Right now, 194 people in Kent have nowhere safe to sleep tonight.
Behind every number is someone who deserves safety, dignity and a chance to rebuild their life.
If you believe that everyone deserves a place to call home, add your name to show your support. Together, we can help change attitudes and build a community where no one feels unwelcome or forgotten.
Add your name today and stand with people facing homelessness, poverty and mental ill health.