No mercy from the cold
Rebecca Wilson never doubted the challenge before her when she agreed to accept a position as a trustee of Recycling Lives in Preston. The director of internet-based cherished vehicle registration company New Reg Limited didn’t think twice about becoming involved in what was a ground-breaking project.
“I realised that the onerous responsibility of becoming a trustee would impact upon my day-to-day life as a company director. However, I would see homeless people on the streets of my city and often wondered just what life experiences had brought them to such an unhappy place. It is tragic to see the faces of young people who – when they should be celebrating their best years – look so lost, desolate and bereft of any hope. And then I saw the faces of older men who had hardship etched in every wrinkle. Just what had these folk been through and what desperate situations had they encountered?
“Perhaps, like so many people, I took homelessness for granted and merely had sympathy for men and women that I saw on our streets. After dark, who knows what happens to them but was it really my concern? Well, yes – it certainly is! In fact, I think that it is the concern of all of us to ensure that those who – for whatever reason – find themselves at such a low point are helped and supported by those of us who have been far more fortunate. That is primarily why I decided to get involved.
“I understand that there will be a Rough Sleepers Count sometime later in the year and I intend to become a volunteer for the night. The opportunity to walk around the streets, alleys and parks of my home city during the early hours seeing and hearing the accounts of homeless people will be educational and no doubt thought provoking. It will remind me of why homeless charities – Recycling Lives amongst them – need to function in order that someone cares for those who really are without a roof above their heads. Taking part in the count during winter will also be a timely reminder that the cold is truly merciless on those who cannot guarantee a warm bed in a safe and secure environment.”
Recycling Lives has a board of enthusiastic voluntary trustees who oversee the charity. If you would like to discuss the work of the trustees, or if you are interested in a trustee position, please call or email Howard Gore (Chair of Trustees) using the ‘Contact Us’ link on the site.
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