Homeless people in Hull who were set to stay in hotel rooms over Christmas have had their bookings cancelled.
Carl Simpson, founder of the Raise the Roof Homeless Project, said he paid £1,092 for 14 twin rooms at the Royal Hotel in Hull as part of the Britannia Hotels group. In a Facebook post shared by hundreds Mr Simpson said he was “gutted”. He also shared that he was “appalled” and “disgusted” at the decision.
An employee at the Royal Hotel said no one is available to comment.
Labour MP Emma Hardy comments on the post: “I’d be happy to contact the hotel about this and appeal to them to reconsider.”
In the Facebook post Mr Simpson says the hotel was told what the rooms were being used for before they were booked and shares the hotel booking confirmation.The reason for the cancellation is unclear at this time.
Absolutely gutted and very angry.We have been on the phone with the Royal hotel Hull and they tell us that the 14 twin…
Posted by Raise The Roof Hull Homeless Project on Saturday, 15 December 2018
Mr Simpson did this last year and hoped to repeat it this year after a successful two nights at Christmas. Last year he was able to book 28 people in for two nights at the Ibis hotel.
He said: “After the stay they were so grateful. Some left staff gifts using the very little money they had, and one asked if he could vacuum the rooms to show his appreciation.
“This means the world to homeless people. Last year we had tears of joy from someone who stood on the edge of the Humber Bridge the night before.
“We have to break the news to people that the hotel has been cancelled.”
The refund has not yet come through therefore, he cannot book another hotel, he said “we need a miracle.”
To make the original booking he relied on donations and worried whether the number of rooms needed could be found elsewhere with affordable prices.
Mr Simpson said he had a “huge following” in his local community: “Three years ago my wife was given five days to live.
“We were granted an emergency wedding in the hospital. I asked the public for help with a wedding dress and the support I got was amazing.”
He then, had taken a burger van into the city centre and went to feed the homeless so he could give a bit back.
The Facebook post has inspired others to try and help the homeless this Christmas. Many have said they can offer a room or two.
LOGO for Raise The Roof Hull Homeless Project.
