Crisis, the national charity for homeless people, has said it is ‘completely unacceptable’ to ‘exploit’ homeless people by selling off and tracking individuals for publicity.

Danish artist Kristian von Hornsleth is fitting homeless men in London with the “Hornsleth Homeless Tracker” (HHT), turning them into ‘real-life Pokémon Go’, before selling them off to art collectors who can trace them 24/7.

Responding, Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of Crisis, said: 

“It is completely unacceptable to treat people in this way and we have serious concerns about the potential impact this publicity stunt could have on vulnerable people.

“No matter what point this artist is trying to make, his actions are exploiting real people. These individuals are not toys or entertainment figures, they are human beings, who are already dealing with difficult situations and possibly complex needs. They need support to resolve their homelessness and get on with their lives..

“Homeless people deserve better than this, and we urge people to consider the consequences of irresponsible practises, before indulging in vanity projects such as this.”

ENDS

For further information or for spokesperson interviews call 020 7426 3891 or email eleanor.radford@crisis.org.uk. For out-of-hours media enquiries please call: 07973 372587

NOTES TO EDITORS

Crisis is the national charity for homeless people. We are committed to ending homelessness.

Every day we see the devastating impact homelessness has on people’s lives. Every year we work side by side with thousands of homeless people, to help them rebuild their lives and leave homelessness behind for good.  

Through our pioneering research into the causes and consequences of homelessness and the solutions to it, we know what it will take to end it. 

Together with others who share our resolve, we bring our knowledge, experience and determination to campaign for the changes that will solve the homelessness crisis once and for all. 

We bring together a unique volunteer effort each Christmas, to bring warmth, companionship and vital services to people at one of the hardest times of the year, and offer a starting point out of homelessness. 

We know that homelessness is not inevitable. We know that together we can end it.