http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/activists-take-over-city-centre-9070980

A group of “Love Activists” have taken over one of Liverpool city centre’s most magnificent buildings.

The handful of protestors entered The Old Bank of England Building on Castle Street at around 3am this morning.

Danny, one of the group, said they now hope to use the building as a centre for the homeless.

Link to Love Activists here:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Love-Activists/1500718110212573?fref=ts

One of their messages: I NEED WORD TO GET OUT TO ALL THE HOMELESS. PLEASE DONT STAY ON THE STREET TONIGHT IN LIVERPOOL. GO TO : Address - 31 Castle Street, Liverpool, Merseyside. THERE IS FOOD AND SHELTER THERE FOR YOU!!...THERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE WAITING THERE TO HELP YOU. THERE ARE BANNERS UP OUTSIDE THE BUILDING SO IT IS EASY TO FIND. CAN PEOPLE OUT SHOPPING TODAY PLEASE LOOK OUT FOR THE HOMELESS AND GIVE THEM THIS ADDRESS. WE NEED THIS POST TO BE SHARED GUYS, SO CAN YOU PLEASE PUT IT ABOUT!!!...THANK YOU GUYS!!

#homesnotbanks

Put into force This month April 2015. New EU Rules.

We are instructed and controlled more than any of us realise.

http://www.socialhousing.co.uk/new-eu-rules-can-help-has-show-value-for-money/7004284.article

Sorry, the link doesn't appear to be functioning

It looks as though the ‘value for money standard’ will remain untouched by the changes the HCA is proposing for the Regulatory Framework in April 2015.

Value for money is also an increasing priority for local authorities who have retained housing, whether they manage it themselves or through an ALMO.

So, will the new EU procurement directives make it easier or harder for housing providers to secure value for money? My colleague Andrew Millross will be debating this question with landlords at PfH Live later this month.

The new rules were passed in April 2014 and the UK government has two years to implement them. However, the Cabinet Office is talking about ‘fast-track’ implementation, so they could be in force later this year.

The introduction to the main EU directive refers to the importance of securing ‘the most efficient use of public funds’. One of the reasons the EU Commission says it is revising and modernising the 2004 directives is ‘to increase the efficiency of public spending’.


Value for money is at the heart of the new EU rules and a number of fresh provisions actively promote it

Value for money is therefore at the heart of the new EU rules and a number of fresh provisions actively promote it.

One such rule is an increased focus on lifecycle costing. The price of maintaining assets over their lifespan can now be considered when evaluating tenders, as well as their initial price.

There is even an opportunity for the government to ban ‘lowest price’ as a potential criterion for awarding public contracts (although it is unlikely that the UK government will go this far).

The new rules will give greater protection when using a buying club. Previously, a housing provider would be at risk of challenge if the buying club breached the EU rules when setting up the framework for joint purchasing.

Under the new rules, it is only the buying club that can be challenged, although the social landlord must still follow the rules for calling-off individual contracts from frameworks.

There are also proposals to simplify the ‘selection’ process, where a supplier’s financial strength, technical ability and experience is assessed when deciding who should be invited to tender. Self-declarations will be used, which are checked only once a supplier has won the contract.

The proposals also involve setting up central databases of suppliers’ accounts and registrations that landlords can check, rather than having to request them for each tender.

When considering the ‘value’ part of ‘value for money’, the HCA focuses on whether a housing provider’s resources are used effectively to meet its objectives.

These could include objectives linked to the environment, ‘fair trade’ or improving job opportunities for tenants.

The new EU rules will allow a greater focus on these value considerations when choosing a supplier so long as such considerations are relevant to the contract.

Richard Brooks is a partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP. The impact of the new EU directives on social landlords will be discussed at PfH Live on 24 June 2014.

Breaking into property is not the way to go.

Neither is the lack of provision of some sort of decent housing for single people.

What to do about the habitual drinkers, drug-takers and slackers? Rehab?

Hi Moonie,it interests me that you talk pejoratively about habitual drinkers and drug takers, I take my prescription drugs on a daily basis and also habitually enjoy a glass of cabernet sauvignon.I don't wish to appear disingenuous, but let he who is without sin.....

they didn't actually 'technically' break in, they made the most of an already open bit.


there's many one bedroom flats about, just not everyone wants them.


what about them? we will ALWAYS have them, at least for a couple more generations. Before you label them all as ..., think about why they turned to that lifestyle and you may have a little more understanding.
and rehab is an answer, but an expensive one unfortunately.

"Fortunately or unfortunately we live in a world where we have a right to offend and be offended." dva99999, 2015.

Sometimes its only extreme measures that highlight a situation because the media will report it ,and the publicity twists arms to start doing more legally.

I think there is a degree of correctness in Moonstar's post. Plenty of homeless everywhere and it's very sad.

The homeless in Liverpool City centre are probably different in many respects from those in Aigburth or Kirby, or Bootle for example. If they don't have a roof and a bed to sleep in at night it is dreadful but many would prefer to sleep rough in the cities, rather than have a permanent home. Even the Samaritans agree to that. Their words were, "would you believe it if I told you that many people are happy to live that way"?

So one size doesn't fit all, but there are a wide variety of all categories and activist groups like this, will only encourage more of the same rather than resolving an already bad situation.
All the refugees and homeless from the EU etc are likely to descend on them, and as the building doesn't have any water.....pretty dire situation really.
The chances are the foreigners will get the flat and then the job to go with it (because they would then have a permanent address) that others will refuse, according to J_demmo's viewpoint .

The one brandishing his sign of defiance, should change his uniform he looks like an ISIS member. Of course , they have now acquired themselves a nice little place to live, on the backs of others. Well done to them.

Might have guessed Wirral Unite would have something to do with it !!!

Copied from Facebook...









Love Activists

11 hrs ·
.

We will be kicking off workshops in 20 mins with a talk from Wirral unite community.

.

While squatting in a non-residential property may not be illegal, stealing water is.

Seems to have been a change of plan....since earlier. Volunteers are now donating water by the gallon load.

31 Castle Street, Liverpool

I'm on a training day tomoz in Liverpool. Visiting the #Lovebank afterwards. #battlebag prepared (just need to fill my water bottles in the morning).

Will keep you lovely, caring people updated.

Nice one Rude'

mmmm got a point there DD.

My points being that there is no black or white and those who just want to take advantage.

It seems to me that breaking into a city centre building of reknown is rather like travelling folk moving into a field in hallowed countryside.

All very grey.

Can see this place getting wrecked and overcrowded with squatters.

The main Question should be why (must be for eventual profit)these and similar buildings are left empty for years and possibly deteriorating when there are people prepared to live in or use them.
Compulsory purchase them and get some use out of them if empty for a number of years.
a charity use, homeless folks,food bank

I'd lay odds if it was in London it would have been snapped up by now

It's owned by Santander and is up for sale. If someone couldn't sell their house, would we expect squatters to move in ? NO.

We seem to be getting weighed down with Activists Agendas. They are on a mission at the moment.....just a political stunt, backed by Wirral Unite !! Says it all really doesn't it ?

What is wrong with all the other charities for the homeless in Liverpool.

Whitechapel Centre,

The Basement

Liverpool's Men's Centre

Crisis Skylight

LCVS

Shelter.

Centrepoint.

Salvation Army

Red Cross etc. etc.

If someone wants to do good, and if Wirral Unite want to get involved, maybe they should contribute some of their vast wealth that sits in the bank doing nothing.
I would also be interested to know how much cash (from donations) Wirral Foodbank also has in the bank. Last I found was 2012/13 income about £23,000 outgoings £7,000.

The Bank of England building will survive, just as it did through a world war, but I doubt the homeless will survive there for too long.

Nice research Granny.

DDWC, It doesn't make occupation of a building any more acceptable even if they have multi billions or a state pension.
Fundraising for the(Church) Charity Groups is certainly constant and ongoing on a National basis.As is the Red Cross, Crisis and the others. Anyone on here who reads this can donate to any of the charities for the homeless listed above. £5 does a lot, but most are happy to squabble about the rights and wrongs rather than putting their hands in their pockets. So we can revert the problem back to ourselves for not contributing more, for the needy.
When FoodBanks take cash donations, I would have thought that money is given in good faith to be used for the very purpose it is donated. Nobody from a charity should have carte blanche to stand it on end.
Whitechapel Centre, spend 100% of their donations on those who need it.

This latest occupation has it's wish list, but it's noted they have not asked for , anyone qualified in mental health, counselling for drug /alcohol abuse , welfare, first aiders, bereavement councillors ,and other important assistance which should be in place. When that is all there, then I shall maybe take them seriously.
These people in many cases are traumatised; musicians and magicians alone will not put it back together for them.

This is their WISH LIST.

We are issuing an urgent call out for:
- OCCUPIERS
- ACTIVISTS
- STREET KITCHENERS
- ARTISTS
- PERFORMERS
- MUSICIANS
- POLITICAL SPEAKERS from any background
- and, THE WHOLE LOCAL COMMUNITY to come down, join in and enjoy the new space.

If you are interested in using the space for anything at all,.. Be quick - we don't know how long we'll be able to hold onto the building.

As well as as many individuals as possible, we also have a Wishlist:

- barricading equipment - wood, nails, drills, anything a bit 'DIY'
- film screening equipment that can be lent (and some kind technical person to operate it!)
- STREET KITCHEN - any donations of food, blankets, any unwanted clothing for the FREE SHOP.


[img]https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/h...a3cc11a5704ac16108c0eb82&oe=55A72CCE[/img]

Some could have been right with their thoughts of graffiti. I just wonder who the 50 homeless were last night. It looks like 'party time' as opposed to a rather more a serious gesture. Kids included as well ! Maybe they could open it up for guided tours or urban exploration ?

Can't understand why people wish to hide their identities, somewhat cowardice and two faced.

Anyway, this facebook page should keep you up to date if anyone is interested !

Click on the images, it makes them much clearer.

https://www.facebook.com/WirralUniteCommunityBranchNw96

Its already been Urban explored numerous times, as the squatters said, the building was open without breaking in.

Squatting in a non-domestic building is not illegal, over many years the various governments have purposely chosen not to make it illegal, this may be counter-intuitive but there must be reasons.

On moral grounds it can be argued either way either that people shouldn't have the right to squat or why should people not be sheltered when a shelter is empty.

It deeply concerns me that they are asking for barricading materials and tools, a satisfactory barrier would more than likely involve damage to this very fine building.

Oh dear ! It would appear that the images of the inside of the bank building have quickly disappeared. Not to worry, if anyone wishes to see them all I have saved them .

I would love to see them Granny thanks xx

What a load of ..., loads of graffiti everywhere. These aren't squatters, they are vandals.

Just a few to wet your appetite.

Oh, ok a few more....

.

Indeed DD. Thanks for putting up the pics Granny. Puts things in a slightly different light eh?

Who is going to foot the bill for the damage they have done?

Homeless - my arse! A shower of freeloading vandal ... as DD rightly observes !

more........

.

Very disappointing they felt the need to deface the place. Loses them all credibility and harms their cause. Im not against direct action as its often needed to get the ears of those who can make a difference -- but no, not acting like morons.

Venice- go and visit the place. Only by visiting the place can you gain perspective.

Go and view the 'grafitti', 'the art', 'the whatever you decide'- depending on your perspective- see it for your self, meet the occupants- before you judge.....

Go and see that the 'interior decor' is confined to two rooms- the main living areas- out of perhaps 30.

Go and meet the people there, differentiate between those in genuine need, those who are faciliating the Occupation and the many many people/ companies ringing up/ visiting with donation offers.

The homeless people- with warm food in their bellies and a safe place to sleep-entertained by the kids who have a band and will entertain the occupants for ten minutes, free of charge- (whoah- how very dare the misfortunate ENJOY themselves).

I'm taking Granny has run 'out of steam' now!!!! (Amusing- reading your rants today):D

Get yourself over there, as you are so passionate- (4 hours is it you spent today), posting your ' internet findings' and come back to us with an 'accurate'(from the right wing) eye- account report. I doubt you would go over but at least it would be a first hand account, as opposed to laughable inaccuracies.

And, believe me- they ARE laughable.

Pics are great by the way. A slice of Social History of Liverpool, April 2015 for the future generations to view.

Pmsl.

Drop kicks vandalising things that aren't theirs is somehow a good thing.

Somebody stop the world... I want to get off...

I'm off to key some cars and smash some windows, but I'll take pictures.

Look at the smug faces on them!

I don't work and I don't care. Looking out over the world in their 70's clothes with their greasy hair and cheap cigarettes.

Meanwhile down below people earn an honest living.

Haha. Judgemental? Much? Stereotypical, too? Come back to us when you have engaged with the people, who flow back n forth 24/ 7

Eh? In English?

I'm glad you're passionate about this Rude, someone has to put a positive spin on things when it's needed. I agree with Venice and others about the posts regarding graffiti which is an unfortunate part of these type of stances. It is too easy to slight individuals through the actions of others. It is frustrating when physical damage is caused but daubing of paint is not quite as bad due to the fact that any potential buyer is more than likely to repaint all the rooms as is the case with most corporate venues (Still no excuse, i know). There are definite needs that need to be met as most venues offering temporary accomodation for the homeless tend to only offer short term periods. Regarding food banks and monies held, it makes sense to me that if there is excess money that it isn't wasted buying food which could go to waste but to perhaps put it into an intrest earning account making the money work for itself. Being a socialist for most of my life I agree with direct action rather than piosly sitting on my butt ranting for change and slagging people of on the tv, pc or newspaper. Direct action has worked for previous generations to bring about positive change which benefits everybody. Each to their own.....

Granny has not run out of steam, and it quite obvious that you are very heated about all this.
This is a political venture, and shown to be so with the posts on Wirral Unite facebook page. If people wish to be political, and pro-active, that's fine. No squabble about that, but when political activists USE the unfortunate e.g 'homeless in our society' to make their views and opinions heard, whilst at the same time causing vandalism for their own purpose, it is disgusting and non productive.
It's a similar stunt to those who use the 'poor pensioners' for political gain, as soon as a mission is over the real feelings begin to show. e'g "Granny running out of steam" . So by any standards Granny is being politically active, in her armchair behind a keyboard, just like the rest and showing how others manipulate situations to their own advantage.
I doubt you will remember all the activist groups in the 60's Rude, all over the country, doing the self same thing but most had respect for the fellow man and didn't use them as blackmail. They didn't get much in the way of results either other than those who were truly passionate taking life seriously and starting charities such as we still have today. They were pro-active in a far better way.
Personally, those pics and others still up on the Wirral Unite FB page, simply show how low some will sink but worse, they think it's beneficial to their so called cause. They should all grow up !

My thoughts are, that a couple of "outdoor sleepers" have had a nice "doss" taken over by dipsticks, who have set in motion the inevitable eviction. Social history for future generations to view. They have occupied an empty building that used to be a bank, some perspective needed here.Witherspoons have been doing it for years, proving heat, food, refreshment and entertainment for the homeless.

"Dropkick"

Dimwitted person, slow on the uptake.

Of course I'm judgemental, they bring nothing to the world.

Granny is spot on.

When you are resting in your armchair Rude in about fifty years from now - I wonder how you will view the generation doing the same thing. I will have crossed the River Styx by then but I wonder if you will think 'I've seen all this before, is there a better way?' as I am thinking now.

A Trot is trot is a trot. They bring nothing to the table but trouble and when they're ready they go back to their rich mummy and daddy and carry on as though nothing happened.

No Slinky Granny isn't spot on. She has an opinion which you may agree with but all that is written is purely her opinion followed up with some carefully selected research and anecdotes. I love Moonstars Greek mythology reference which will be lost to some, i'm sure a great welcome to Hades will be had.
Is it right to take away the individual right to protest simply because an opinion is given that nothing becomes of the actions? Progressive change takes time but it does eventually happen following protests. We would not have gay rights, civil rights and womens rights for example without taking direct action. No doubt some youngsters at their dotage will think was it worth it or have a negative opinion of the youth of that new period taking action in a way which is seen as disrespective or counter intuitive. Times change, methods of action change but hopefully there will be change if its worth fighting for.

When you get old, and I am, you look back and actually realise what a waste of time and effort you spent worrying over stuff that in the end doesn't make one jot of difference to your own situation or those nearest to you. You get one chance at life, why waste it causing bother, wrecking your own environs and causing grief to those around you? Look where the Greeks are now, that's where mythology gets you in the end.

I'm obviously old before my time.

Which are the careful research and anecdotes you refer to Geemeister ? If people are happy to contradict others as has happened in more than one post, they need to clarify their own opinions before they disregard others . Not just dismiss without explanation. I assume you are aware that this whole venture is likely to not last long.....as their post said on Facebook. quote "hurry, we do not know how long we can stay here" Now, that to me indicates they are using and abusing the homeless. Building their hopes up just to let them down again. That is pure and simply CRUEL and if you can justify that fact Geemeister, then please let us know how.

There are plenty of buildings in Liverpool that could have served the same purpose, but no, they want a high profile building. In fact had they been really serious I'm sure there are many who may well have offers of empty buildings for the purpose of.

Watched the video clip of them digging the road up outside the building, is that Bank of England land or is it council land ? Not really sure about what you're going on about in relation to making change, change has been put in place and built upon since 1970's/80's for the homeless, a right to protest is not what we are talking about on here, and this effort is not for the homeless. There might well be more needed places, but this again is not building on any foundations which have already been laid. Apart from that I no longer have any points to make to give them air time. Make a donation as many do, without whom , there would hardly be anywhere for the homeless.

People who do make a real difference, why don't you join them.

http://www.shelter.org.uk/


Bandy is right.......and yes, they will disappear into the ether after the election, leaving those in most need with a faded memory of what gave them a day of hope. How sad for them.

Just one more thing. This picture has also been shared on the same Love Activists FB page. It's got a few 'thumbs up' . The masks being used for the purpose of masked identity.

Ironically, those who are making them are probably homeless too, and suffering slave labour ! No consciences then when posting such an image ? It would give anyone nightmares, looking at those all day.

[quote=granny] Now, that to me indicates they are using and abusing the homeless. Building their hopes up just to let them down again. That is pure and simply CRUEL and if you can justify that fact Geemeister, then please let us know how.

There are plenty of buildings in Liverpool that could have served the same purpose, but no, they want a high profile building. In fact had they been really serious I'm sure there are many who may well have offers of empty buildings for the purpose of.

[/unquote]


Dont often disagree with you Granny , but your comment about letting the homeless down - giving them false hope?? I dont think so. Youre intimating that the homeless are too stupid to realize how obvious it is that this is a point making demonstration, not a 'for life' set up? Homeless doesnt = 'thick' . Most of them will 'get it' that this is a message to the Govt, that something more must be done.

Secondly , your point about the building being a bank. To me , thats the very ESSENCE of the whole thing. Its greedy life sucking banks that rule the world pretty much, banks that are the underlying cause of most of the country's ills which are causing a circle of financial problems, which are causing the job shortage which is causing the financil problems which are causing the poverty which is leading to homelessness etc . Of COURSE it had to be a bank , and the more high profile the better.

I prefer legal ways of doing things, but sometimes the law is too slothful and needs a kick up the backside . ie Direct action .Direct action can work. Its just a shame that the organizers of this 'sit in', are obviously full of enthusiasm , but sadly not experienced enough to know/see/understand , that to get good PR and credibility out of this gesture, they needed to respect the place , and practice some strong self policing and demonstrate less childlike behaviour. Sadly , this is the way of most direct actions these days


The comment about helping via 'Shelter' They do a good job, but theyre probably a registered charity who therefore cant act politically -- much to their chagrin , so a lot of charities are actually pleased (although cant show support ) to see their cause highlighted in direct high profile ways ( but of course its counter productive when the protesters start behaving in a vandalistic or uncivilised manner)

I have heard that the Occupants have held a meeting Venice re. the grafitti. A discussion was held whether to remove it or not.

It is, generally, the youngsters who decided to express their opinions on the walls of two rooms.I have said before, in the context of the entire building, the grafitti is actually a very small area. There are no 'organisers' as such.

Supporters range from anarchists to trade union members to Joe Public, passing by, dropping in and donating goods.

Glad somebody can see why they targetted the former Bank of England.

Oh yes, about Shelter....Pickles made sure that charities are limited in what they can do by way of his Charities Commision.

Venice, people aren't that smart when they can lock themselves in a the vault of a bank strong room ! Last on the video clip was they were waiting for a hack saw More like a ton of explosive needed. I wonder if they are still there ?

I dont agree with out and out anarchy , and I reckon its that element which invariably turns a perfectly reasonable protest that many people could understand and support (albeit from the side lines so to speak) into a situation where the original purpose is COMPLETELY lost and all the public sees and remembers (encouraged by the establishment) and whether it's entirely accurate or not, is an unruly ,ill educated, uncouth collection of often foul mouthed yobs ,rampaging and vandalising public and often private property without a second thought of consequences. Makes me furious, sad and frustrated .

I hope they do turn it around , if they throw out the anarchists , cleaned up their act , showed respect for the building, had a good rehearsed spokesperson explain exactly why they were there and what they wanted to achieve , and if they stop trying to turn whats a serious protest into some kind of trashy festival ---- then they might just get people to actually realize how important the issue IS.

Cant see them being able to kick out the anarchists though. By definition anarchists dont like being told anything, and its my belief the majority of them just attend protests randomly purely to practise wild anti social behaviour , under the umbrella of a just cause .

Yup, Venice it is a problem.

The Chair of NW/96 visited at the weekend to try and educate them on leadership, strategy etc.... *sigh*

The coalition must have been aware that they would cause divisions with their policies- of course, they did!! Hence,on occasion 'groups' being created within the same class movement, with the same (ultimate) aims/ message. Then there are the infiltrators, too with their own objectives.

Granny, I have not heard about the 'locked in the vault' thing so cannot comment other than wonder why 'they' need a hacksaw when the keys to the vault are on site?! Maybe, he has gone to collect supplies that the smaller Liverpool shops seem to be offering?

When I was u.e ing the vaults, it is a claustrophic environment. I was un-nerved, as an experienced Urbexer. Maybe a newb has panicked, I dunno...

Also #Solidarity. Although I bet a few undercover police wear them, too.

Rudebox... you're obviously 'for the people'.

What do you do for a living?

(and did someone sell you a load of commas, for you to, use them, lots)

Lol

None of your business. Do one.

How's that nerve that just got hit?

I'll answer my own question; "F**k all"

I walk past there everyday and today I saw the same 4 fellas in doorways on the by James st and down castle st... One was bleeding in a doorway... They obviously ain't that bothered about sheltering the homeless if they are campaigning via facebook which I doubt too many true homeless people have access too.

My guess is they are a bunch of freeloading mofos who sign on at my expense and now have to put more expense on the taxpayer for the court hearing on the 28th of April. Plus the cost to the building owner and the general disrespect to a gorgeous building.

They also said that people with sanctions on benefits could go. I know that the media make it an issue put perhaps these people deserve a consequence like having money stopped. This country drives me insane everyone seems to think they're owed a living these days.

As you do.

LOL

https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petiti...acebook-share-button&time=1429795060

Yer, Free Wi-Fi access donated by an adjacent business with permission.

Yeah rude, I mean the potential recipients not the freeloaders x

Which allows the homeless to access facebook on their iPhone 6.

http://independent-liverpool.co.uk/blogs/an-afternoon-with-the-love-activists/

Interesting.

There doing no harm to anybody,fair play to them.

Very.

Maybe their wish will come sooner than you think !

Announced today that HSBC is considering moving it's HQ out of the UK, as 80% of their profit is made in Asia.

Venice I am fully aware that homeless doesn't = THICK, but now they want to dress them like puppets.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Love-Activists/1500718110212573

Love Activists

18 hrs ·
.

Suits shirts an ties please. People. We want our homeless people dressed better than the bankers who made them homeless wink emoticon

Hahahaha.

Friggin' 'ell.

Plant pots.

I dont understand Granny , what am I missing? Whats wrong with the allegory of the homeless in suits? (as long as theres a choice given of course)

"Better dressed than bankers" - where exactly are homeless people going to get these tailored suits from?

It's all ridiculous. People are insane.

They are getting loads of clothes donations. Although I think I get the point they are trying to make re the 'suits' , I think its somewhat ambitious and personally I dont think they need to do it. The festival mentallity is totally unecessary and detracts from a worth cause.

Busy in there today. Loads more supplies now and some furniture in communial rooms

I agree with this statement re. the wearing of suits:

People do not need a suit to make them a better person. I get your sentiment but I find this post somewhat offensive and rather oppressive. Clothes serve other purposes than just warmth. They offer the individual the right of expression, so why would you want to urge people to wear a suit?

However, 9+ have been donated as well as shirts and ties- not bad in such a short time since the request.

Well I dont see I was either oppressive or offensive so we'll have to agree to differ .

They'll be homeless people in cheap donated suits.

It's a desperately sad (but massively humorous) situation.

Most of them wouldn't be homeless and jobless if they put as much effort into getting a job.

They seem to be trying to make an analogy of the homeless people with the bankers. I would think it's purpose is to make a stance in the event of being evicted. (although just my assumption )Thinking,....... maybe it is for them to attend Court on Tuesday

This is why I feel it is particularly unsavoury. If those who are expected to wear them are in agreement, then fine, but it seems to me they are being used..again. Just my opinion and everyone is entitled to their own.

Form Love Activists Facebook. which I posted earlier today.


Love Activists

Yesterday at 05:59 ·
.

Suits shirts an ties please. People. We want our homeless people dressed better than the bankers who made them homeless wink emoticon

Venice, Rude copied a statement made by someone else on the Love Activist page, nothing against you.

Meanwhile I work my feckn arse off to pay my tax to keep these people in the manner to which they have become accustomed.
There is only so much money in the pot and until more people start putting in than are taking out there will be no winners. Yes there are cuts. Yes it's not nice but as long as folk who are fit enough to attend events like this but not fit enough to do an honest days work then we're all feckin doomed regardless of what political party is in government!

Well said

as well.

Over your pm limit, hun x

Sokay Rude, was too late to delete after I realized you probably didnt mean me. (Granny sorted me out )

I assume all supporters will be there to form a human shield as requested, when eviction takes place at 4pm this afternoon ?
Only hope it doesn't turn out to be another hypocritical bailout of support. When it comes to 'the physical' , quite often those who shout loudest ....... Well, we know the rest don't we ?

I don't think the officials will take any chances with the eviction - it will be quick and clean. This is a Grade 1 listed building that was abused, anybody with such little regard for our heritage clearly have a huge gap in their morals.

Lets hope they learn from their mistakes and think things through next time, there are plenty of lawful and moral ways to get media and public attention - doing good things is one way.

"Never under estimate the predictability of stupidity"
Danny Freeman spokesperson for the Squatting community has been evicted from seventeen properties in five months.
* In a statement regarding the occupied broadcasting station the love activists said. "We have an opportunity here to occupy media and spread love through the air-waves lets not let this escape the hands of the revolutionaries.*
He is a London based tit and in my opinion has used a few homeless people to further his narcissistic appetite for self gratification.
The Guardian *
Morning Star
Daily Mail

It would appear that the bank building is not owned by Santander as claimed.

Eviction has been authorised and the vandals have 24 hours to leave from the court case this morning.

The very least the occupiers could do is to redecorate the walls that have been defaced and regain some of their credibility (if that indeed exists).

I can imagine what this will be like.been seen so many times.
Just wonder if they will tidy up the mess they have made in this grade listed 1 building.

Pete price is having a discussion on this now, 105.9 fm citytalk.

He is talking with the people in the bank.

What channel on Freeview?

Bailiffs arrived yesterday at 2:15pm with Police in attendance. Police arrived again at 8PM and are still in attendance today.

I hope the occupiers get suitably charged.

What would the charges be?

Breach of the peace
Aggravated Trespass
Obstructing a police officer
Street collection without a licence
Criminal damage
Contempt of court

etc

Evidence?

I bet they wont get out without a fight,This could take months to really get these lot evicted.Dread to think what state they will leave this nice building in.
Bottom line is they will just squat somewhere else.Vandals

Send in the SAS with the teargas

It's a peaceful protest doubt any charges will be brought forward.

Don't see a problem with them using an empty building as long as it's kept clean.

Depends on you definition of clean. Apart from the graffiti, I'm sure there will be lots of rubbish and old, decaying food. There may or may not be drug paraphernalia.
The squatters should either pay for the clean-up or be made to do it themselves.

It's not the eighties anymore Chris.
The graffiti is on sheets and they have kept the place clean.

They're going to lock themselves in the vault if there is an attempted breach by the bailiffs or police.
I'm hoping the vault is not an airtight one.

Think they will just lock the white gates as they have keys.

Feeding 50/ 60 people daily does not allow for much food to rot.

There is a lot of graffiti on the internal walls. It also concerned me that they were asking for tools and materials to barricade the building which may or may not have meant nailing/screwing things across doors etc.

They are in breach of a court order, the court order told them to leave, they have also been asked to leave by the police and bailiffs but refused to leave. You know from UE's that when you are asked to leave you do, otherwise you are committing an offence.

The building isn't just empty, its up for sale, it doesn't make sense that they are protesting about empty buildings not in use when they are also hindering the chances of the building being sold and put back in use.

If they chose a modern junk building I would have less gripe with them but this is a grade one listed building and part of our heritage that they have vandalised. They have no respect for society as a whole just looking after their own selfish wants.

I doubt it's possible to lock the vault from inside. If someone stays outside to lock the others in they may face a charge of manslaughter since the vault is almost certainly airtight.

That's not good news Chris.

Can't help but LOL at the judgemental statements.

You all had the chance to go and visit



.

Have you read all this thread????also looked at the pictures Granny posted???.

It's not good or bad, Ste: it just depends on your point of view.

So you think they should be locked in the safe and suffocate to death?

That is not what i was asking you.I asked if you have taken time to read through the WHOLE thread ,also have a good look at the pictures Granny posted.
So am not saying they should be locked in a safe
Do you think graffiti on the walls is acceptable in a grade listed 1 building.
Say it was your building up for sale and you have squatters writing on your walls and threatening not to leave.Would you just ignore it ?????

Two rooms in a building of 20+ HUGE rooms

I hear the (mainly) 'water coloured' paints used have been mostly removed (Liverpool Echo)by the current occupants, but hey ho, slogans daubed on walls seem to evoke more emotive reactions than the plight of the homeless of the City.

Sense of perspective needed here, me-thinks.

To be honest, my heart sank when I first visited the former bank and saw the writings on the walls but in context, it is no big deal....

As an Activist, i saw the beauty of what the (so-called) 'Love Activists' were trying to do and succeeded to do. As an Urbexer, I adhered to the Urbex Code and did not damage nor deface anything.

The pictures you have all seen are taken in the two communal rooms, 95% of the rooms in the building remain as what they have been for 3+ years- large, very large empty rooms with grey carpet, cream walls and windows. Very very boring. Nobody would take photographs of them.

I have taken and posted two photo albums of the former bank on my facebook wall- one is from an urbex perception (roof and basement/ vaults. The other will be representative of local social history, in due course).

I find it ironic that if the graffiti was to remain- then future Urbexers would be photographing it!!!

From Facebook

This was found on a doorway in Lord Street, 60 homeless people at one point were sleeping in the bank, if only you knew what the place meant to some of the residents there, one guy, who had been street homeless for 5 months now told me how he had cried each of the nights he spent there with joy and happiness, each morning he would get up and clean his room then excitedly show us all with pride. He wrote a small message by his bed saying how much he adores the place, how we're all lovely and how this has been the best week of his life.
An activst has taken him back home to live with them, and I hope a whole new positive chapter has been opened for him.
This story isn't unique though, all the residents there had their troubles, their own stories to share, and all were so genuinely thankful for what was happening, not just for some food and a bed but the chance to feel 'normal' again, a chance to regain some dignity.

There are currently 1.5 million empty buildings in the UK, yet we have people living on the streets, our council are breaching human rights, arresting protesters without no liable reason, placing gates around the building, cutting off water, they are STARVING people out.

Do not accept this as normal behaviour, you as a citizen have rights, you have a voice, together we can make a difference, together we can stop this happening.

This image has genuinely broken my heart, It hurts me to think that it needs to come to all this in order for people to start asking questions.

Support the Bank of Love, tell the world what is happening here in Liverpool, and how the government are trying to stop it, by all means necessary.

We will no longer remain silent.

Unite and resist.

Maybe the people who can't / won't pay the 'bedroom tax' can let the homeless use their spare rooms then their spare room will no longer be spare so no tax due? Simples

That bedroom tax still going?
I thought they scrapped it?
More stealing from people.

What defines a 'spare room'?

Oh, so people affected by B.T should 'pluck a homeless person, off the street......and home them, in their 'spare rooms'?

Softy, you aint got a jar of glue,mate. You really have not.

[quote=RUDEBOX]What defines a 'spare room'?

Oh, so people affected by B.T should 'pluck a homeless person, off the street......and home them, in their 'spare rooms'?

if you say so

I found what you said very moving rude but I'm glad that person has been given somewhere to stay for the time being. Good luck. Bennie.

Exactly my point as well.They who are all so caring for the homeless poeple,Why can t they let them sleep in there spare rooms.
Or maybe ,NO is the answer because they will draw on the walls and wont be classed as graffiti.

"why cant they let them sleep in their spare rooms?"


You cant seriously be asking that question ???

"No second night out" is a local government initiative.I wonder why the local activists make no mention of it, and why they don't use the present window of media attention to point it out.

Good point Dusty . Ive just had a good look at their website and superficially it looks a very good initiative . However, something isnt working if we are still having loads of rough sleepers on the streets . Needs studying to see why its not effective .

One reason it might not be working as well as it could be might be because they have rules and regulations unlike the unofficial doss house.

That could be part of the problem Dilly , right from the outset. I noticed on their website they have analized what the outcome was of each of the calls made to their hotline. Some got no further than contact, because information was asked for.

Some so called homeless choose to live like dossers, in that I am not saying all do. Many won't go near properly oganised establishments because they have an inability to conform with any rules, rules such as no drinking. I wonder if the people in the bank building had any such rules ? I would seriously doubt it.

I wonder what the answer is .I believe lots of people simply dont want to give up drink or their smokes as those are the only things that take the pain of hopelessness away -and they simply arent capable of mixing/conforming in a confined covered building. So what do we do with those people. No organization can work long term without rules and regulations or it will self destruct --yet few of the 'haves' will be willing to dole out money to the 'have nots' either directly or indirectly , in the knowledge it has no strings attached and will be immediately flushed down the toilet.

Maybe as I think Ive commented somewhere before, one answer is just to provide such people with decent sleeping bags and a pop up tent, and a designated area they can get together and sleep rough safely??

We do something similar for travellers after all and Id hardly count half of them as have nots.

[quote=Softy_Southerner]Maybe the people who can't / won't pay the 'bedroom tax' can let the homeless use their spare rooms then their spare room will no longer be spare so no tax due? Simples :
)
True, pity somethink like that didn't apply to paying income tax, national insurance and my pension.

It would appear that the vandals have also caused damage to the door of the building.

No homeless people are now in the building, yet it is still illegally occupied.

The people calling themselves "activists" are not, there is a clear definition in English of what an activist is and nowhere does illegal activity enter the definition yet these vandals attempt to use the title to justify their illegal actions. It is highly insulting the the many true activists the country has who provide a valuable watchdog and public awareness service on many occasions.

Stickers! Get a grip!

Any chance of these 'activists' moving on to Italy to assist with the problems over there, or perhaps Greece? I might suggest Africa but they might not fare too well over there.

All the "activists" in the pictures on page 1 seem to be fit, able bodied young people. Why weren't they at work? I expect they're getting some sort of benefit. Disgraceful.

about sums it up Chris. Serial arris oles most of 'em.

Hope these activists are moved on before the Cunard 3 Queens arrive, all those tourists bussing around putting much need money into the economy. The state of that stately building looks disgraceful a blight on the city with these idiots. Sorry Rude but I don't agree with it at all x

how much is this costing in wasted police hours ? They should stop pussy footing with these people and get them out with any force necessary.

Exactly, shoot the lot of them I say.
This is wants wrong in this country, to much softly softly approach.
Just like beggars on the streets who at the end of the day go home in there nice new car.
I bet many of there's aren't homeless at all.

I don't take peoples points of view, personal. x

Yeah we all different, thanks x

Glad your not in command sue, Pmsl, shoot them? That's a bit harsh. Haha.

Hitler-esque, in essence.

Come back, Adolf; all is forgiven.

Liverpool green party have lost all credibility, for a political party to agree that a court order should be ignored shows their sense of loyalty to law and order.

SOURCE

Didn't realise the Greens had any credibility, not with those who have a normal sense of reasoning anyway. La La Land party.

Stop putting people off

Alot of police at the bank today.Squatters have done alot of damage to the inside of the building and throwing things at the police from the window.
They are refusing to leave.

No surprises there then !!

There has been high police presence for several days. What damage have the occupiers done to the inside of the building, apart from superficial (in context) damage ie grafitti that the world already knows about- and where is the evidence? I would also like to see evidence of the occupants throwing things at the police.Is this a birds-eye account or is there an official source.

45 years ago, Students sit-in and occupation of Liverpool Universities Senate House, part of this was over housing. Liverpool University has since apologised for the subsequent punishments and co-operated fully in the 40th anniversary (I can't see the bank owner doing this in 40 years time).

The Occupation

The 40th Anniverary Reunion

Wasting police time and money with trouble makers and vandals.
Glad they are thrown out.Poor guy who has to sell this place will have the job of cleaning there mess up.PURE MOCKERY.

I'm glad to see (hopefully) it's over. I do hope they don't take over another one. Have heard that most of them come from down south, don't know how true that is but let them go back again..

Lets hope the judge they get is also a landlord and understands the owner's plight.

I would hope that any damage would be properly recorded, in the presence of independent witnesses, and the occupiers billed for it. In the pictures I saw, they appeared to all be young and fit, so why weren't they working? I'd also like to see any of their benefit claims investigated. Just a load of troublemakers.

It was on the news tonight.

World War One plaque, historic clock mechanism and lead reported stolen from former Bank

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/bank-england-liverpool-missing-appeal-9243571

I'm glad there is proof the plaque was present at the start of this vandalistic occupation, hopefully there is proof for the other items also.

Grim. Not items easily fitted into a handbag,or indeed, a rucksack!!

The plaque was leaning against one of the pillars, in the main banking hall on the 22nd April, undamaged.

You're facing a losing battle, being an apologist for that rabble.

I am not apologising for them. Duh.

Losing battle against whom?? Ignorant, mis-informed bigots? So be it.

Anyone reading this thread will see that you are an apologist for them.
Oh, and being an apologist does not mean you're apologising for them. (Look it up; it's not my job to educate you).

Stitch up.

Wish I could find somewhere to move into, rent free with no council tax to pay and no bills and on top of that handouts from the good old public to fed me. The good life. No I'm not talking about the homeless but the freeloaders that make themselves out to be do Gooder's

Well said, Dilly.

Cheers Chris. Sorry for the typo, should have read (feed me)

[quote=Dilly]Wish I could find somewhere to move into, rent free with no council tax to pay and no bills and on top of that handouts from the good old public to fed me. The good life. No I'm not talking about the homeless but the
freeloaders that make themselves out to be do Gooder's

Apologist, good description that Chris.
Yes well said Dilly

This must have been the plaque they were talking about.

[img]https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd....0127543_9f301c04e96c4ad2cc862db83a48a941[/img]

Indeed. I wonder whether the Echo will report on the fact that the plaque and a small amount of lead that was removed from the roof are still within the building.

Apparently, they are in a locked room on one of the upper floors. Just a matter of locating who has the key to said locked room....

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/world-war-one-plaque-reported-9251346

looked up
A person who offers an argument in defence of something controversial:


An apologist is a person who argues in favor of something unpopular.

Early Christian writers (c. 120–220) who defended their faith against critics and recommended their faith to outsiders were called apologists.

But I bet if you asked most folks in Liverpool or Wirral,if it was unpopular that buildings that have been empty for a number of years couldn't be used for a more useful purpose which was most probably what the occupation was pointing out, they'd say it caught folks attention more than any amount of letters to the Globe or Echo would have done.
The fact that there may be damage will have gone against them.
I'd like to see what damage there was, and, if it's just a paint job make the occupationists do it as part of their punishment

I seem to remember you criticising Granny for using click instead of copy & paste.

'Critising'?? Behave yourself!!! The emotions used were indicitive of the intended tone.

Just wondering how the plaque managed to go from ground floor on 22nd april to being stolen to be hidden behind a radiator (for safe keeping)to being found in a locked room on another floor!who has the key for this room as the love squatters where the ones in there at the time?

Don't forget it was hanging on a wall at one point, apparently?

The occupiers had the keys, or 'lead occupier', if you will. Must have been 100 at least on a ring including keys to the gates in the vault- must have been left in the building?? I don't know.

The main thing is- is that the historic plaque has not and was not stolen as was reported in the mainstream media.

I reckon that clock mechanism was taken away many years ago for repair and never returned.

No one should be living in that building and behaving the way they are.Pure disgrace.

Can we assume that the lateness of the hour explains the three mis-spellings?
Actually, I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to have a dig.

Just a bunch of vandals who have nothing better to do but cause trouble. Should put their energies into finding a job and working for a living instead of causing trouble and destroying things. Sad bunch of no marks.

Nineteen pictures of the mess after the activists left.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/inside-bank-england-building-after-9248551

Did anyone really expect anything less ? These protests never fail to end in the same way. Absolutely detrimental to their so called 'cause'. Idiots !

So called do Gooder's doing bad. No respect for themselves or other people's property.

Do you still support this rabble, rudebox?

Is anyone REALLY surprised by seeing these???

err... No !

Anybody have a link to pictures from before they arrived ?
Even the report states:

"Liverpool council officers took these pictures showing the state of the building after the protestors left.

It is not yet clear what condition the building was in prior to the arrival of the activists."

There are pictures and statements about the condition of the place earlier in the occupation.

Five of the Love Activists were in Court today charged with trespass in relation to the bank.

All five have pleaded guilty, sentencing will happen on Sep 17th

John Rice, 22
James Allanson, 20
John Hall, 50
James Jones, 20
Chelsea Stafford, 19

SOURCE

This gets confusing. Four of those charged are of no fixed abode. Are they the homeless people who Love Activists were intending to help ?

If so, all I can ask is why the people who instigated, encouraged, supported, and were actively part of this operation, are not being held to account ? Plenty of others in the building at the time, including Union members and how much involvement did Danny Freeman have in this ? . How is it that these youngsters are the only ones 'carrying the can' ?
In this instance ,I feel some sympathy for these individuals being made the scapegoats and their lives being ruined. Although the cause and the event has already faded into history, so was it worth it ?

It seems to prove a point made a few pages back.

They are people that chose to stay in the bank after the truce was offered. It is not a random choice of people that entered the bank.

These poor innocents tried to disrupt the court as well.

Fifty is only young by your standards

Anyone can state they are of no fixed abode, it's not usually worth the court's time to establish if it's true or not.

DD, I was referring to 'four' if you re=read my first line. Of course, 50 is young if taken on the path of 3 score years and ten !

...and they are still only kids really, who have been led by the nose. If it was one of yours you would be devastated and have grievances against outside influences form the nations capitol.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/met-police-called-help-merseyside-9252381

This weekends Neo Nazi march and opposition to it is also being activated from the 'smoke'. Are people really so blind ?