A Manchester hotel has been accused of "complete discrimination" after turning away two homeless men during sub-zero temperatures, despite their rooms being fully paid for by a local charity.
"Complete Discrimination on Appearance" in Freezing Conditions
The incident occurred on Monday night in Manchester city centre, as temperatures plummeted to a bitter -6C. The homeless charity, Two Brews, had used donations and a worker's own money to book and pay for two rooms at the Holiday Inn on Oxford Road.
Amanda Thompson, a worker with the charity, accompanied the men to the hotel reception after securing the £200 booking online. She described the immediate refusal as disgusting and based purely on the men's appearance as rough sleepers.
"After getting there it was just complete discrimination by appearance. It’s disgusting," Thompson told the Manchester Evening News. "I can’t wrap my head around how you can go to the desk, with a booking that is paid for, and be turned away just for being a rough sleeper."
Hotel Staff Cite "Company Policy" in Refusal
In a video of the encounter, a member of staff at the reception can be heard telling the men: "Guys, I’m not going to lie to you, I’m not going to be able to check you in. Full truth and transparency, I know that you’re from the street and the hotel doesn’t allow it."
The employee added that the decision was not personal but was "the company’s policy." This stance appears to directly contradict the online statement from the hotel's owner, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), which claims it "offers access for all" and "aims to make hotel facilities available and accessible to all guests equally."
The refusal came as an amber cold weather health alert was active across the country. The UK Health Security Agency had warned the severe conditions posed a significant risk of increased deaths among vulnerable people.
A Tragic Context and a Compassionate Alternative
The incident took place just days after another homeless man was found dead in Manchester on Boxing Day, having spent the night in freezing conditions. Thompson said the Holiday Inn's refusal left her infuriated, especially given the life-threatening cold.
"It was so cold. It made me so angry. It’s so frustrating and I had a wave of emotions," she said.
Following the rejection, the men were taken to a nearby Travelodge, where staff were "so helpful." The hotel accommodated the two men along with several other homeless individuals and their dogs that night.
IHG, the parent company of Holiday Inn, has been contacted for comment regarding the alleged policy and the specific incident in Manchester.
