Police beggars call is attacked
A Shrewsbury homeless charity has hit back at the police's handling of beggars in the town, claiming not enough help is being given to people on the streets.
The Isaiah 58 Project says giving beggars Asbos is not working and is simply moving the problem from street to street. It claims putting homeless people through the courts is a waste of money that would be better invested in providing hostels and shelters.
John Woodyatt, project adviser for Isaiah 58, criticised the police after Constable David Walton vowed they would continue to apply for Asbos or Crasbos to prevent anti-social behaviour by vagrants.
Mr Walton said there were currently 12 people in Shrewsbury who were the subject of warnings. But Mr Woodyatt believes the police are taking the wrong approach
He said: "We are spending all this cash taking them through the courts when it could be spent more wisely on a homeless shelter.
"We have had a reduction in rough sleepers when Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council's rough sleepers task force has helped them get rehoused.
"Over the last three years many are now still in the homes and doing well. But so far this year no-one has been rehoused. I agree that beggars should not be given money - if people want to help they should give them food or donate to charities."
Mr Woodyatt's comments come after Constable Walton claimed begging was a "lucrative exercise". One beggar told him he had made £50 in three hours.
He said police would continue to use their powers to get Asbos brought on serial beggars. "Begging is a criminal offence," he added.
By Steve Todd
