Homeless Men Denied Hotel Stay in Manchester Amid Freezing Temperatures
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- Two homeless men were denied entry to a pre-booked Holiday Inn in Manchester during sub-zero temperatures, despite rooms being paid for by a charity.
- The hotel cited a policy against accommodating homeless individuals, prompting public backlash and an apology from Holiday Inn.
- The men were eventually accommodated at a nearby Travelodge, which has been praised for its supportive stance towards homeless individuals.
- The incident occurred amid a cold weather alert, highlighting the risks faced by rough sleepers during extreme conditions.
- The charity involved, Two Brews, criticized the hotel's actions as discriminatory and inhumane.
In a distressing incident that has sparked widespread criticism, two homeless men were refused entry to a Holiday Inn in Manchester, despite having pre-booked rooms paid for by a local charity. The incident unfolded on a bitterly cold night when temperatures plummeted to -6C (21.2F), raising concerns about the treatment of homeless individuals during extreme weather conditions.
Hotel Policy Sparks Outrage
The men, whose rooms were booked by the charity Two Brews, were turned away by staff at the Holiday Inn Express on Oxford Road. The hotel cited a policy against accommodating homeless individuals, a decision that has been described as "disgusting" and "inhumane" by Amanda Thompson, a volunteer with the charity. "It's discrimination by appearance," Thompson remarked, expressing her disbelief at the hotel's actions.
Public Apology and Policy Review
Following the incident, a spokesperson for Holiday Inn Express issued an apology, acknowledging that the situation was mishandled and not reflective of the hotel's inclusive policy. "We sincerely apologise to the guests affected and are taking steps internally to strengthen our training," the spokesperson stated. The hotel chain, part of the IHG group, emphasizes its commitment to providing access for all guests.
Supportive Response from Travelodge
After being turned away, the men were successfully accommodated at a nearby Travelodge, which has been commended for its supportive approach. The hotel reportedly provided shelter not only for the two men but also for several other homeless individuals and their pets that night. Thompson praised Travelodge staff for their compassion and willingness to help those in need.
Broader Implications Amid Cold Weather Alert
The incident occurred during an amber cold weather health alert, underscoring the heightened risks faced by rough sleepers. The UK Health Security Agency had warned of increased health risks and potential fatalities due to the severe cold. The refusal of service at the Holiday Inn has reignited discussions about the responsibilities of businesses in supporting vulnerable populations during such conditions.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The refusal of service to homeless individuals by a major hotel chain has prompted calls for clearer policies and better training to prevent discrimination. As public scrutiny intensifies, businesses may face increased pressure to ensure their practices align with broader societal values of inclusivity and compassion. This incident could lead to legislative discussions on the rights of homeless individuals and the obligations of service providers, particularly during extreme weather events. Additionally, charities like Two Brews may see increased support and collaboration with businesses that demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility.
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Homeless Men Denied Hotel Stay in Manchester Amid Freezing Temperatures
In This Article
Ethan Brooks| Published HIGHLIGHTS
- Two homeless men were denied entry to a pre-booked Holiday Inn in Manchester during sub-zero temperatures, despite rooms being paid for by a charity.
- The hotel cited a policy against accommodating homeless individuals, prompting public backlash and an apology from Holiday Inn.
- The men were eventually accommodated at a nearby Travelodge, which has been praised for its supportive stance towards homeless individuals.
- The incident occurred amid a cold weather alert, highlighting the risks faced by rough sleepers during extreme conditions.
- The charity involved, Two Brews, criticized the hotel's actions as discriminatory and inhumane.
In a distressing incident that has sparked widespread criticism, two homeless men were refused entry to a Holiday Inn in Manchester, despite having pre-booked rooms paid for by a local charity. The incident unfolded on a bitterly cold night when temperatures plummeted to -6C (21.2F), raising concerns about the treatment of homeless individuals during extreme weather conditions.
Hotel Policy Sparks Outrage
The men, whose rooms were booked by the charity Two Brews, were turned away by staff at the Holiday Inn Express on Oxford Road. The hotel cited a policy against accommodating homeless individuals, a decision that has been described as "disgusting" and "inhumane" by Amanda Thompson, a volunteer with the charity. "It's discrimination by appearance," Thompson remarked, expressing her disbelief at the hotel's actions.
Public Apology and Policy Review
Following the incident, a spokesperson for Holiday Inn Express issued an apology, acknowledging that the situation was mishandled and not reflective of the hotel's inclusive policy. "We sincerely apologise to the guests affected and are taking steps internally to strengthen our training," the spokesperson stated. The hotel chain, part of the IHG group, emphasizes its commitment to providing access for all guests.
Supportive Response from Travelodge
After being turned away, the men were successfully accommodated at a nearby Travelodge, which has been commended for its supportive approach. The hotel reportedly provided shelter not only for the two men but also for several other homeless individuals and their pets that night. Thompson praised Travelodge staff for their compassion and willingness to help those in need.
Broader Implications Amid Cold Weather Alert
The incident occurred during an amber cold weather health alert, underscoring the heightened risks faced by rough sleepers. The UK Health Security Agency had warned of increased health risks and potential fatalities due to the severe cold. The refusal of service at the Holiday Inn has reignited discussions about the responsibilities of businesses in supporting vulnerable populations during such conditions.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The refusal of service to homeless individuals by a major hotel chain has prompted calls for clearer policies and better training to prevent discrimination. As public scrutiny intensifies, businesses may face increased pressure to ensure their practices align with broader societal values of inclusivity and compassion. This incident could lead to legislative discussions on the rights of homeless individuals and the obligations of service providers, particularly during extreme weather events. Additionally, charities like Two Brews may see increased support and collaboration with businesses that demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility.
Images from the Web
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Rising Measles Cases in the UK Spark Urgent Vaccination Campaign
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Matt Goodwin to Stand for Reform UK in Gorton and Denton By-Election Amidst Political Tensions
Global Reflections on Holocaust Memorial Day Amid Rising Antisemitism
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