Shoppers in Darlington’s town centre continue to express concerns regarding the presence of beggars, despite recent data indicating a notable decline in begging incidents. During a recent meeting focused on town centre security, council officials acknowledged that public perception around begging remains significantly negative, highlighting ongoing worries among residents and local business owners.
The local authority has reported that its comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing begging has led to a substantial decrease in such activities. This proactive approach shifts the focus from merely responding to incidents to preventing individuals from resorting to begging in the first place. Pauline Culley, a Conservative councillor representing Mowden, shared insights from a recent public meeting organized by former MP Peter Gibson. Culley stated, “The perception from shopkeepers is that begging is still really bad in the town. It may have gone down, but people don’t think it has.”
Multi-Agency Strategy for Improvement
The council has implemented a multi-agency strategy that includes four central components: empathy, engagement, education, and enforcement. Councillor Matthew Snedker emphasized that residents frequently advocate for improved enforcement of begging-related incidents. He noted, “Handing out tickets like hotcakes is counterproductive because people need to then beg to pay the fines.” Snedker believes that the inclusive approach encapsulated in the “four E’s” is a sustainable method for addressing the issue in Darlington. His aim is to enhance public confidence and facilitate easier reporting of concerns related to begging.
Community safety partners are advising the public to refrain from giving money directly to individuals who beg. Instead, they encourage reporting concerns to local authorities or contributing to charitable organizations. They warn that while direct donations may seem compassionate, they can inadvertently support harmful habits and complicate efforts to connect those in need with appropriate support services.
In response to the ongoing concerns raised by councillors and residents, Chris Knox, the safety leader at the council, reiterated the importance of reporting begging incidents. “I always encourage people to report begging if they have concerns,” Knox stated. He highlighted the presence of a dedicated begging support officer who actively engages with individuals who beg. Knox added, “Certainly, what I’m seeing in the reported figures, and speaking to staff, is that there has been a reduction.”
As the council’s strategy continues to evolve, the goal is to foster a safer, more inclusive environment for both residents and visitors in Darlington.
