...to say something to them? (possibly homeless)

[depecheNO]

I just saw three people and a dog get out of a tent over in the park across from my flat. (I'm in a large apartment block, so probably not the only one who has noticed. I didn't want to post about this on Facebook as I have a few neighbours on there and it might draw more attention to them.)

They've been here at least a week, but it's the first time I've seen any of them and I assumed that the tent was abandoned. The park is fairly secluded, but obviously that's no good if us lot can see over the hedges, and in other words, I can see better spots for them based on my field of view. It's freezing outside and I feel really bad for them, but I wouldn't want to interfere. Seems like they have coats, but what about food and potentially walking ages to a water source? I'm honestly not one of those competitive philanthropists, and the last thing I'd want is for them to feel like that's the case.

If it helps, this is a high security building with a strong community spirit, so we're not really worried about any of the personal safety repercussions highlighted in the "man in car park every day" thread - only "Is it appropriate?"

WWYD?

'expecting responses about how the other saints on this site would buy them a better tent, an electric blanket, a coffee machine and link them up to their broadband hmm )'

Yeah, there was a thread on here recently with posters trying to outdo one another in how far they would go to assist a person who broke into the garden shed of a vulnerable elderly lady and was sleeping in there. Flasks of tea and soup, sleeping bags and blankets, sandwiches, portable heaters, etc. In the real world, people call the police when someone breaks into their property.

It's perfectly likely they were released from prison.

Or have serious mental health problems including paranoia and delusions.

Or have a violent past.

Or all of the above.

My professional job is with the homeless: whilst many stories are heartbreaking few are 'down on their luck.' Most fall into the category of substance abuser, mental health problems (usually schizophrenia) or criminal activity. It generally has to be said that some aspects of the above apply to both.

Hence I have advised do NOT approach.

Shelter are able to put callers in touch with local homelessness workers, loletta if you look at their website.

Streetlink also can send someone out.

My professional job is with the homeless

Perhaps you could advise the OP of the correct people to contact. So far I've just seen you tell her to avoid them and made assumptions about their MH conditions and criminal past.

I lived on the streets for a while. Never been in prison, wasn't a druggie/alcoholic and my MH was absolutely fine. Family problems were my issue at that time.

Who is the best agency to contact in this situation goldfish? is it the police on 101, Social Services, Shelter or is it best to just ignore the situation and hope they move on? (genuine question here)

Won't the police just move them on? I thought that was their first duty then any help on top of that?

I would contact a charity like the ones named on here.

Very early on, I agreed with WorraLiberty that the police on 101 was the best course of action.

I have made no assumptions at all but have urged the OP to avoid them precisely because of that. You can't assume anything and it could be of course that they are absolutely fine, as you were - but it is highly unwise to assume they are fine.