The city has begun using a progressive approach to a sharp increase in homelessness – providing arts and culture access to homeless people

Two armchairs are facing each other in the Whitworth art gallery in Manchester. Denise Harrison, a mental health blogger with past experience of homelessness, is sitting in one of them, waiting for questions.

A member of the public sits down opposite her, and tentatively asks if she thinks it’s OK to give money to people on the street, as charities discourage it. “It’s down to personal choice – you shouldn’t feel bad if you do or if don’t,” replies Harrison. “Some worry it’s enabling addictions, but it’s also providing someone with the option to pay for shelter. On the street, someone can end up with several free McDonald’s burgers but nowhere to sleep that night.” […]

Source: Manchester tackles homelessness crisis – by embracing the arts