To: Woking Borough Council
Begging should not be banned in Woking
We are asking Woking Borough Council to remove the Public Space Protection Order which has banned begging.
Why is this important?
Begging is not harmful. Woking Borough Council argue that begging can be intimidating. But if someone feels intimidated, the Police can use existing powers under the Public Order Act.
The council also said there is no need to beg in Woking- because there is sufficient help available. However, the waiting lists for NHS mental healthcare, and substance misuse treatment are not short.
It is also claimed that many people who beg aren't actually homeless. Of course, lying about your circumstances is fraud and the Police can use existing powers to deal with it.
This campaign is based on this information from Woking Council's website:
https://www.woking.gov.uk/community/safety/pspo
If you have anything that suggests that Woking Borough Council are no longer able to fine people for begging then we'd love to hear more from you, drop us an email at [email protected]
The council also said there is no need to beg in Woking- because there is sufficient help available. However, the waiting lists for NHS mental healthcare, and substance misuse treatment are not short.
It is also claimed that many people who beg aren't actually homeless. Of course, lying about your circumstances is fraud and the Police can use existing powers to deal with it.
This campaign is based on this information from Woking Council's website:
https://www.woking.gov.uk/community/safety/pspo
If you have anything that suggests that Woking Borough Council are no longer able to fine people for begging then we'd love to hear more from you, drop us an email at [email protected]