Banning begging in Tunbridge Wells – Fining those caught
begging in public places following complaints to council’s community safety
unit. Being discussed Oct 4th
Homeless Charity, bridge Trust says plan reveal "staggering
lack of joined up thinking."
Chief Exec, John Handley says policy will “move the
problem from one doorway to another, or one town to another.
"People who are begging are begging because they do not have any money. To say they are going to fine them is completely stupid.
"People who are begging are begging because they do not have any money. To say they are going to fine them is completely stupid.
"People do not beg because they want to but because they
need to. It shows a complete lack of compassion and is a draconian and narrow
minded policy. They should be ashamed of themselves - they should be helping
people off the street not pushing them off."
Policy is one of many being considered by wide reaching
powers in public spaces protection orders (PSPO)
Bans beggars from approaching or existing in public spaces
with intention to collect money.
Council spokesperson: "The PSPO is not a way to target
homeless people and if it is introduced staff will be fully trained and will
have discretion about how they enforce this condition of the PSPO. The idea
behind this being to encourage genuinely homeless people to engage with
agencies who can provide help and assistance. Not all street beggars are
homeless and not all homeless people beg."
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