I've been homeless, in London as well. My view on what you've described: They haven't had their epiphany about why they need to get off the streets and take car

I've been homeless, in London as well. My view on what you've described: They haven't had their epiphany about why they need to get off the streets and take care of themselves. I say that just because they mention a short term goal and nothing more. "We haven't a bed tomorrow", rather than "We need out of this situation and off the streets for good so that they can do right by themselves and their future child". The difference is subtle but yet huge. They're not looking to get off the streets yet, they're just looking to get a bed tomorrow. They already know where the nightshelters are, everyone on the streets in London do and they are free. Hostels charge and most homeless will know where those are too. Hostels vary in price, but £12 for a night is a fair ball-park. Shelters and hostels can be found out about here: http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/homelessness/emergency_accommodation/hostels_and_nightshelters http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/homelessness/emerge... My simple summary: If you want to help, then point them towards Shelter. They haven't yet had the epiphany and aren't yet looking to leave the street, instead they've spotted you for what you are to them which is an opportunity for a little short-term comfort. What you should do is concede you are not able to help them without them having the epiphany. Further, you should concede that even if they have the epiphany that you are not well placed to help them given your own situation. The thing you should do is to let Shelter know they exist and are calling for help. There absolutely are people skilled and with resources waiting to help them as and when they want to help themselves. Of course, you could just ease your conscious and throw them some money and satisfy their transient need for a little hard cash... but you probably know what this is going to do, and do it once and you will be put in the position to have to do it again.