I was invited by my UNISON branch executive colleague, Lola Oyewusi (who is also a Parish Councillor) to participate in a FaceBook Live discussion on Sunday on supporting the Homeless during Covid-19.
Lola also invited Cllr Sharon Thompson, who is the Cabinet lead for Housing in Birmingham Council and Cllr Naushabah Khan, who is the Labour Lead for Housing in Medway Council.
Unfortunately, I had a clash and was unable to join but I did send this short video about what we are doing in Newham to support the homeless during this pandemic and some thoughts about the future.
You can view this excellent FaceBook Live interview here https://www.facebook.com/omolola.oyewusi/videos/3201392696558015/.
I totally agree with Cllr Thompson view that homelessness is a political choice. The government overnight decided to stop rough sleeping and over a weekend it was reduced by 90%. Also, Cllr Khan, that we must not let the Tories say the Covid-19 crisis is now over and the homeless must now return to the streets, since it is "business as usual".
Well done to Lola for organising and chairing this important discussion (and remaining so calm despite the technical problems).
