'If you don't say it no one can listen.'

Manchester Housing Festival got off to an inauspicious start as a man in a full lion suit watched volunteers huddled around in the cold and drizzle as a man put up the much needed gazebo. Keen to get going but unable to hand out flyers due to his paws, John the lion waited for another Wythenshawe volunteer to help him and they headed out to find the best pitch near the tram stop.

Finding an audience to engage in a blustery Piccadilly Gardens wasn't easy as most people rushed through to shops and offices. Unsurprisingly those not in work had more time to stop and listen. Gareth came over specially to ask about housing. He'd been homeless and was keen to tell his story about being supported into secure housing by a charity in Derbyshire. As he signed the petition he looked around the tent at the house drawings. 'Some people just need a helping hand.' he shrugged before picking up his bags and carrying on towards the bus station.

Some people had been caught by people flyering and approached the tent with gusto wanting to share their tales of 'the slums of Salford' and 'nightmare landlords.' At some points people were queuing to sign including a carer accompanying a man with learning disabilities. 'You and your family need somewhere to live don't you?' he explained 'These people are trying to make sure everyone can have a good house that doesn't cost so much. If you sign your name that will help them Do you want to sign?'

Others stopped out of politeness including an Eritrean lady who didn't speak much English. Being able to condense the already succinct campaign message down to 'more houses' was all it took to get her smiling and nodding and in the queue for the petition. Everyone appreciated the need for more housing. 'You've got to add your voice haven't you?' said Hylton, currently homeless and on his way to sort out his benefits. 'If you don't say it no one can listen.'