Council says action to be taken on aggressive Blackpool beggars

Blackpool Council says it is aware that a small number of beggars are taking an increasingly aggressive and intimidating approach – and is working with partners to tackle the issue.

Residents, shoppers and shopkeepers have complained of feeling uncomfortable and even menaced by individuals and groups of beggars, predominantly in the town centre but also on the seafront and other areas.

While traditionally the approach has been for street beggars to passively sit and call out for change, in more recent incidents people have been actively approached and in some cases even followed for a short time.

There have been suggestion that some of these incidents have been linked to small numbers of offenders coming to Blackpool directly after being released from prison, with no support in place, but this has not been corroborated.

The council says that support will be available but anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

One Blackpool woman, 42, told the Blackpool Gazette of being approached three times in one day, with one incident being particularly disturbing.

She said: “The man saw my camera and came up to me and asked for money. He said I could afford to spare some change if I had such a decent camera. I’m not easily intimidated by it felt pretty menacing, not the usual way beggars have behaved in Blackpool.”

A spokesperson for Blackpool Council said: “We fully appreciate the concerns that have been raised through local PACT meetings, particularly around anti-social behaviour, individuals moving into the area, and those with offending histories.

“No one should feel intimidated or unsafe in their own neighbourhood or while just going about daily activities.

“We have seen an increase in the number of individuals presenting within the town centre, particularly those with complex vulnerabilities.

“This increase appears to be down to a mix of wider economic pressures and housing instability – neither of which are issues exclusive to Blackpool – along with the concentration of support services and facilities within the town centre.

“Many of these individuals are in need of support, but we recognise that they can also contribute to increased reports of anti-social behaviour and can have a significant impact on residents, businesses and visitors.

“While there have also been instances of out-of-area individuals being identified within the town centre, there is currently no evidence to suggest a significant organised influx of offenders.

“To address these issues, a coordinated multi-agency response continues through regular partnership meetings and work involving the council, Lancashire Constabulary, probation, housing, and health and commissioned support services.

“For example, as a council, we undertake targeted outreach and engagement work with vulnerable individuals. Where individuals engage in anti-social behaviour, criminality or persistent nuisance, enforcement action is taken, where appropriate.

“Similarly, Blackpool Police undertake daily patrolling, monthly street sweeps, proactive use of civil powers and PSPO enforcement, and regular targeting of persistent offenders.

“We continue to work closely with our partners to address issues and welcome ongoing dialogue with local residents and community representatives.”