Sue Devaney thinks people with addictions need help rather than "judgement".
The 53-year-old soap star – who has battled substance abuse herself – believes there are some common misconceptions surrounding the plight of homeless people in the UK.
She explained: "There’s a huge misunderstanding towards homeless people because some of them, not all of them, drink and do drugs.
"The majority of those people do not choose the life they have. People drink and do drugs, not because they want to, but because they have very little choice. And that’s something I think a lot of people don’t get. They need help. Not judgement."
Reflecting on her own battle with substance abuse, the ‘Coronation Street’ actress told Metro.co.uk: "I’m passionate about helping these people because I know what it’s like to have no money. No job. I have experienced mental health issues, low self esteem, low self worth like many of us.
"I know what it’s like to be an addict. People turn to substance abuse because, initially, it takes the pain away, even if it’s just for an hour or so. Then, it stops working and the very thing you used to take the pain away is causing you catastrophic pain.
"I am lucky. I got help. I had the disease of more more more … more drink, more sugar, just an insatiable appetite for the bad things in life! Nothing in moderation, everything in excess. I attracted the wrong type of folk.
"Am I less of a person for having the disease of addiction? I am not. So are they less of a person for using drugs and alcohol to cope?"