Panic on the streets of Wigan , well Lower Ince.

I toyed with today's blog. Should it be on my twenty shades of social housing or this one. I have gone for this. The reason being the message I have is more likely to reach those who it may help through this forum. The story I am about to share is about a young lad, but equally could be a dementia sufferer who has wandered away from home. Today, as usual, I took mum to see dad. It was absolutely sorry weather. Luckily we arrived in between hail showers. We got out the car and started to walk to the entrance. There was a young lad at the door, talking loudly. I presumed on a hands free or headphone phone. I thought, brilliant, someone has rung the bell so we won't have to wait. As I reached the door , there stood behind the secure door were all the care staff, the cook, her sous chef and all the cleaners. "We can't let you in with him there" was shouted at me. How bizarre. I then clocked the lad, obviously upset and not looking good, bruised and slightly worse for wear. Now my two personalities kicked in. Do I get mum in with less fuss or sort out the lad and see what was wrong. "We can't let you in, come back later" I simply turned to the lad and said do you mind moving to the car park whilst I take my mum in. He very politely walked away. We got in. To be greeted by we have rung the police, he is homeless you know, and a drug addict. He had conned his way in and been ejected. I quickly moved mum to lounge before she could hear. I then went back and asked if they had asked him any questions, no he is a drug addict. Now I know I am immune to some things, but that lad was obviously in distress. I went to look for him but he had gone. Why don't these people have any compassion. They were frightened. I realise that. But here was a lad who was looking for help. I told them what to do if he returned and gave them numbers for Wigan homeless shelter. I doubt they would ever ring. I just hope he doesn't sleep rough tonight. On my dad. He was very argumentative today, having auditory and visual halucinations. It was a short visit, usually a sign that he is very tired. For anyone else not in housing evading this, please don't make assumptions about homeless people. Just talk to them and see what help is available.