Dear Editor,

I recently visited an establishment in Half-Way-Tree and encountered a situation that left me both reflective and deeply concerned. While there, a young woman approached me in a respectful and courteous manner. She greeted me warmly with a “good afternoon” before asking for assistance. Her demeanour suggested genuine need, and I felt compelled to offer what she requested. It was a simple interaction, but one that reminded me that not all requests for help are without merit.

However, as I made my way back to my office, my experience took a troubling turn. A young man, carrying a very small child on his shoulder, approached me and muttered, “Elder, mi waan $100 from yuh.” I chose not to respond. Shortly after, a middle-aged man shouted aggressively, “Gi mi $50!” He too was ignored. These encounters were not only uncomfortable but suggested a pattern of coercive and confrontational begging that is becoming increasingly common in our public spaces.

What disturbed me most was the presence of the young child in the scorching heat. The sun was unforgiving, and yet the child remained exposed, seemingly used as a tool to evoke sympathy from passers-by. This raises serious ethical and legal concerns. Children should never be placed in situations in which their well-being is compromised for financial gain. Such actions, whether intentional or not, border on exploitation and must be addressed with urgency.

Half-Way-Tree is known to have a visible police presence, and rightly so, given its centrality and high level of activity. It is, therefore, troubling that such situations persist unchecked. Child protection is not merely a moral responsibility, but a legal one. Authorities must be vigilant in monitoring these circumstances and taking appropriate action when necessary. The welfare of children must always take precedence over any other consideration.

While compassion and charity are virtues we must all uphold, they must be exercised wisely. As Sathya Sai Baba, renowned Indian godman, guru, and philanthropist, aptly stated, “Charity does not mean that the land should be full of beggars. We can provide some support, but provide food, clothing, and other conveniences in such a way that you are not encouraging laziness and begging.” This perspective encourages us to help in ways that uplift rather than enable dependency or harmful practices.

It is my hope that this issue will spark meaningful dialogue and prompt action from both the public and the relevant authorities. We must strive to create a society in which assistance is given with discernment, and vulnerable individuals, especially children, are protected from harm and exploitation.

Garfield L Angus

Spur Tree PO

Manchester

garfieldangus@gmail.com