[oracuk]

In the UK, especially in London the situation suggests I shouldn't give to beggars, I should give to the homeless charities.

There are reportedly more hostel places than homeless people and those hostel places are 'free at the point of delivery' to the homeless that use them.

There has been research done, supported I think by the homeless charities, that suggests that the money given direct to some homeless is used to fuel drink and drug addictions and may help cause a higher rate of death or serious disease.

The recommendation (According to Radio 4 at least) is to give to the homeless charities not to the homeless.