RESIDENTS are calling for homeless people to be moved on again from a former rubbish tip in Jackdaw Lane (Oxford Mail, November 18).

Some people just won’t leave the homeless alone.

Instead of having a grudge against them, why don’t they go down and help them, see what their needs are, and assist them by supplying sleeping bags, blankets, clothing, footwear, food and tents?

When people do head counts of the homeless, they take place only within a short radius of Oxford. They always come up with figures of fewer than 10 homeless people. There are, however, far, far more.

If you’re walking the streets and not lying down, then you’re not counted. The homeless are sleeping in sheds, garages, squats, tents, friends’ sofas, or staying with relations – but always living with the fear of knowing they’re going to be kicked out or told to move on.

If you can’t help them, don’t hinder them. Sooner or later this could happen to any of us – and it could happen overnight. Maybe it will be Christmas Eve.

Soon the authorities will go to these people and remove everything they own. Why don’t those people who want the homeless removed, go with them?

Help tear their tents down, kick them out to go on the streets, and watch as they go and lie in a shop doorway and suffer more abuse and attacks.

Some of the homeless are not entitled to benefits and can’t even go to the Night Shelter.

Why don’t you people who want them kicked out offer them some help. Let them stay in your shed, or garage. Or, better still, give them a room.

We collect 365 days a year for the homeless and work voluntarily with them, so I know what it’s like for them and how they get treated.

Your support is always needed by Help The Homeless. Last week we lit our house with decorations in aid of the homeless. A big thank-you to the Oxford Mail who have always given us full support.

PETER BONNEY, Nuffield Road, Wood Farm, Oxford