Actions of disgraced student prompt support for Cambridge homeless services

Residents and visitors applauded for raising thousands for charity causes in spite of incident.

Following reports of a Pembrook College student who was filmed burning a £20 note infront of a homeless man in Cambridge, the deputy leader of the city council and its leader for housing has urged people to support the council’s homeless initiative.

Councillor Kevin Price, the City’s Executive Councillor for Housing, said: “This young man’s behaviour has rightly been condemned by all. It showed an appalling lack of respect and common humanity for a person without a roof over their head by someone in a position of privilege living in a college.

“I hope his own college will discipline him, but, just as importantly, I hope that he takes some time to reflect on his actions and does something to redress the wrong that he did. Last year I gave a talk on homelessness to students from across the university at their request. I know that many of them are involved in volunteering in projects to help the homeless in the city and will feel as let down and disgusted at his actions as I do.”

Councillor Price added: “In complete contrast to his behaviour, residents and visitors to Cambridge have already donated more than £5000 to Cambridge Street Aid since it was launched by Cambridge City Council at the end of November.

“Our new fund offers small grants for practical help to get rough sleepers off the streets and into accommodation and employment.”

Donations can be made by texting CAMB16 followed by the amount to 70070 - eg CAMB16 £3 - or by visiting the Just Giving page.