Estranged family member asks to borrow a tenner?

[Jamjarcandlestick]

A second cousin, 19M, who I’ve not spoken to for at least three years, and had limited contact with before then has just asked to borrow £10 via FB messenger (we’re not even friends on FB).

He said he doesn’t speak to his family anymore so can’t ask them for help, but he’s got a tenancy inspection tomorrow and his flat is a mess. Apparently he’s got plates everywhere and no washing up liquid. He says he’ll pay me back when he gets paid.

I’ve also not spoken to my cousin for three years therefore I don’t feel particularly comfortable reaching out to him to see what’s going on. I know my second cousin left home around then when he was kicked out of school/got in a lot of trouble with the police.

He must be desperate.
If you have the £10 to spare I would send it.
But be clear its a once off.

It’s more of a ‘WWYD’ as I’m not worried about loosing ten pounds, more if I’m funding a habit (I have no idea if he is on drugs) or if I do give him a tenner I’m going to get more requests for money. Theres no way he’s needing a tenner for fairy and washing powder.

Washing up liquid doesn't cost that much! I wouldn't give them money but would buy washing up liquid and some bin bags. They are softening you up to tap you for a bigger loan, is my feeling

He must have used up all his usual sources to be asking you. I’m afraid I’d just ignore it.

Does he live near you? If so I would probably drop round with some washing up liquid and some basics and see how he is doing.

I’d ask for his address and send him some washing up liquid

Do they live even remotely nearby? If so, say that you don't have any cash but you'll call to them with your cleaning stuff and help tidy up. The reply will tell you all you need to know.

If I could spare it, I'd send them the money.

It might be a scam, but I'd give them the benefit of the doubt this time.

If it's just £10 I'd send it. But I would make it clear that this is a one off. And wish them well etc

Why you?
Why now?
I’d be suspicious but I’m a cautious sort.
I think he’s testing the water, with or without washing up liquid.

I offered to help him out if he popped over but apparently he’s living in a completely different region now.

Well isn’t washing powder is about 7.50 and fairy can be about 2-3 so a tenner is about right

I'd assume it's a scam and not actually from him. How do you know it is?

no no no
DH has a cousin who tries to tap different family members up for random money. They will come back asking for more. Don't do it.

me too.

This could well be his messenger being hacked. I wouldn't send it. That's a pretty crummy excuse for needing a tenner if you think about it.

It's not for washing up liquid. We all know that. I'd be happy to amazon order him a bottle to his address for tomorrow but I wouldn't be handing out money.

It’s Sunday night, where is he getting washing liquid from now, l can’t even imagine where the nearest shop is open to me know, l am really central in town .

no matter even if he is asking without a good intention - I would give it to him and maybe a bit extra as well. he is family after all. and if he comes back again then would be more hesitant.

I would send him a tenner, tell him not to pay it back and also never to ask for another penny.

I wouldn’t lend the money, but would offer the supplies. If he needs them he can come and get them. If he’s too far away then he should be asking someone closer to home.

I'd just ignore tbh

This is most likely a scam and not really him. Ive had it before

Pop round with some washing up liquid and scourers