Comedian Joe Lycett recently engaged in a sharp critique of Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s controversial comments about rough sleeping. Braverman’s statements, posted on social media platform X, sparked outrage as she described rough sleeping as a “lifestyle choice,” suggesting that many rough sleepers were “from abroad” and that British cities could face an “explosion of crime, drug taking, and squalor” if no action were taken.
In response, Lycett launched an impassioned takedown of Braverman’s remarks and initiated a fundraising campaign to support Crisis UK, a national charity dedicated to helping people experiencing homelessness. He particularly seized upon Braverman’s description of rough sleeping as a “lifestyle choice” and humorously pointed out that he always thought lifestyle choices revolved around mundane decisions like decorating a bathroom with potpourri. Accompanying his criticism was an image of a potpourri bowl, urging people to contribute to Crisis UK.
At the time of publication, Lycett’s campaign had raised over £14,200. Crisis UK expressed their gratitude, and they were joined by other organizations condemning Braverman’s comments. Crisis emphasized that “sleeping on the streets is not a lifestyle choice” and cited the shortage of affordable housing and soaring rents as factors contributing to homelessness. They also highlighted the violence and abuse often faced by those sleeping rough, which significantly impacts their physical and mental health.
Homelessness charity Shelter echoed similar sentiments, labeling Braverman’s comments as “unacceptable” and emphasizing that homelessness is not a “lifestyle choice” but rather a consequence of failed government policies. Shelter criticized the criminalization of homeless individuals and the hindrance of charitable assistance.
This incident is not the first time that Joe Lycett has taken on Suella Braverman. In a previous encounter, Lycett humorously responded to Braverman’s statements regarding LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, highlighting her skepticism and proposing a farcical solution to verify their claims. This latest clash underscores the importance of addressing issues related to homelessness and the LGBTQ+ community, as both remain critical areas of concern in society today.