IN JAIL YOU GET THREE SQUARE MEALS ADAY. PROBLEM IS IT’S FULL OF CRIMINALS
I want my own house. That’s what everyone wants. I need somewhere to go
Richie McColl stands under the Hielanman’s Umbrella, the short stretch of Argyle Street running under Glasgow Central station. The 29-year-old had a troubled start in life. He said: “My mum’s dead and my dad’s not interested – he has about 13 weans.
“My background growing up was just living in residential homes.
“I was born in Govan but was adopted at the age of four. That didn’t work out and then I lived in Fife.
“I was in a residential school from 11 to 16 – that’s when I got into things that I shouldn’t have.
“I have been in the jail
so many times I can’t really remember what the number is. At least you get three square meals a day. But, of course, I don’t really like being in the jail – it’s full of criminals.
“I don’t ask anyone for money. I just stand here with my cup and if people want to drop something in that’s up to them.
“People shopping in the city centre used to be brand new with us but things changed. There are too many of us. If someone has said there are too many people begging in Glasgow then they’re probably right.”
Richie stayed in a Salvation Army place in Springburn for a while and has been in hostels. He added: “They all seem to have different rules and it’s confusing.
“I want my own house. That’s what everyone wants, isn’t it?
“I need somewhere to go – where do they suggest putting me?”