Rude Awakenings from Sleeping Rough

This is a story that the charities don't want you to read. This is the fate that can befall any of us that you don't want to acknowledge.

For years you have passed them on the streets, as much a part of your routine as your morning shower, your half-hearted scan of the world's news — fake or otherwise — and the barista who artistically crafts the £4 cappuccino with soya milk, three drops of vanilla, and a flutter of chocolate sprinkles that has to be made just right or it throws your day of...