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One of Belfast's main homeless charities has paid tribute after a member of the homeless community here took his own life at the weekend.

It is understood that the man, in his late-20s, had been living on the streets of Belfast for several months. He was found dead at Titanic train halt.

Donna Connor, of Hope Outreach for the Homeless, told Belfast Live: "Unfortunately we've lost a lovely young man at the weekend who fell down a slippery path and couldn't find any way out other than to end his life.

"We at Hope Outreach for the Homeless are truly devastated that this has happened.

"Maybe it hasn't happened in vain. Ask what you could do the next time you see someone in a doorway: A cup of tea or a few minutes to let them know that someone cares could be all it takes to get them through to the next day.

"We will always endeavour to do as much as we can for each and every one of our people without judging them."

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Donna added: "Homelessness is often perceived as a taboo subject but the reality of homelessness is that we are all only a pay cheque away from it.

"How many people walk past homeless people in doorways? I've done it in the past, thinking, 'Ah, it's just a drunk or a tramp', the reality is these people are human beings who've fallen on hard times for various reasons: Family breakdown, marriage breakdown, addiction, job loss or mental health issues.

"We will always remember the smile and hugs our friend he gave us. This young man was a lovely, caring genuine guy.

"He had so much respect for us and unfortunately he fell down a slippery path from which he could find no way out other than to end his life. He always greeted us with a smile and a real big hug and we are still feeling the effects of losing him.

"He will be sorely missed by all at Hope Outreach."

If you or someone you know has been affected by these issues, call 24/7 crisis helpline and counselling service Lifeline 0808 808 8000. Calls are free from all landlines and mobiles.