OUR community's consciousness of the homeless seems to be particularly heightened this time of year.

The homeless are evermore visible as we are getting more and more stories about organisations doing good deeds to help those who have nothing but the cold hard ground to keep them company this Christmas.

Therefore, with there being so many worthy causes, many would argue that it is better to put your money into the hands of registered charities, rather than people begging on the streets.

Back in June the Worcester News printed a story in which Sergeant Carl Jones said: "People need to be aware - begging either actively or passively is a crime. If you give money to someone you are causing them to break the law.”

This might sound harsh and we have all experienced that twang of guilt when walking past a homeless person who looks up at us with wan features and meekly inquires whether we have 'any spare change.'

Many respond by apologising and panicking, thinking of a plethora of highly original excuses ranging from 'sorry mate, I've only got my card' to claiming to have mindlessly left their wallet 'in the car. '

However, with so many hard working projects in our area, there is no need to let this guilt ruin our Christmas.

From December 22 to January 2, the Salvation Army is providing a night shelter to all rough sleepers. They will get a meal and breakfast the next day. The team are even working on getting a shower and a laundry service.

If you don't have any money to spare, but are still eager to make that difference, donations of sleeping bags, shoes, sock and other items make just as much impact.

St Paul's Hostel works all year round and staff go above and beyond, offering not only shelter but therapy, courses in a range of skills and much more to rebuild the lives of the homeless. Our 'spare change' is better off going to those who know what they are doing.