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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]

Woking

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Links

Updates

2017-01-01 20:26:48 +0000

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5bxy2vt_gM

https://callingforrealchange.com/2016/12/05/homeless-abuse-goes-unreported/

2016-12-15 21:03:42 +0000

Liberty recognises our campaign by nominating Luke for a Human Rights Award 2016 https://youtu.be/l4gIIw0SWaU

2016-12-15 10:39:32 +0000

1,000 signatures reached

2016-04-10 20:17:38 +0100

In the near future we plan to protest up in London. In the mean time we are working to grow a solid foundation of support from activists across the country.

2016-04-07 18:15:42 +0100

500 signatures reached

2016-04-04 19:46:14 +0100

100 signatures reached

2016-04-04 17:14:06 +0100

50 signatures reached

2016-04-04 16:22:45 +0100

25 signatures reached

2016-04-04 15:34:00 +0100

10 signatures reached