No time for rest in homelessness fight

Last December thousands of people massed together to sleep “rough” amid sub zero temperatures on the streets of Edinburgh. Doubtless it was an uncomfortable, chastening experience.

Unlike the nation’s homeless population, however, the 8,000 participants in the Social Bite sleep out were able to pack up their sleeping bags and head home after the event.

Millions of pounds were raised and it was estimated that more than 600 genuinely homeless people were supported as a result.

Quite apart from the money realised, it also represented a tremendous awareness-raising exercise, sparking front page coverage across the country.

Another event is now in the pipeline, with sleep outs planned for several cities including Dundee.

Hundreds are expected to take part in the Slessor Gardens extravaganza.

Again it will be a far from pleasant experience for those brave souls involved, but the prize is great with an end to homelessness in this country a genuinely realistic aim.

Of course, for the vast majority of people in Scotland, living on the streets is unlikely to be more than a very distant possibility.

However, for a stubborn minority it remains an appalling reality – and that is something we should all be concerned about regardless of our own personal background.