IT’S very easy to pass by a homeless person on the street and pretend not to see them.

It’s not necessarily down to being heartless, uncaring. We’ve often been advised not to give money directly to homeless people in case of drug use. Then there is that uncertainty of what is actually the best way to help them, and whether it’s useful.

The Bolton News has been turning the spotlight on homeless people in Bolton this last week and it’s been very illuminating. There was the very moving story of Connor who now lives on the streets as his partner and young child live in a hostel.

Then there was the young pregnant woman and her partner, and the many homeless young people – vulnerable and alone - rescued by Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme.

This all just shows how vital it is to support the local organisations helping the homeless.