For many years I have worked at Crisis at Christmas, the centre where the homeless can come in London for shelter, medical care, food and someone to listen to.

I am always touched by the diversity of people who attend. Sure there are the stereotypical drunks and wasters. But many who end up homeless are not disimilar to you and I. Many people there have held down good jobs, owned good homes/cars - all the things society values.

Yet often it takes just one tragedy to turn peoples lives upside down - maybe the death of a partner or a loved one, or a divorce - something which turns "respectable" people into people who cannot cope.

If you know you are going to be alone at Christmas, which many of us are, why not volunteer for Crisis (its too late this year btw!). It keeps you busy and gives a unique insight into the society we live in.