Blackburn with Darwen begging campaign launched

A new campaign has been launched to tackle street begging by asking people approached for cash to donate to local charities rather than hand over their change.

The Blackburn with Darwen initiative says this is a better way of helping vulnerable individuals in need who may have addiction or mental health issues.

The ‘Change for Change – Make Your Kindness Count’ campaign was launched on Tuesday by the borough council’s anti-social behaviour and housing needs team, neighbourhood police, and Blackburn town centre’s Business Improvement District (BID).

It asks Blackburn with Darwen residents to support vulnerable individuals by donating to local charities rather than giving money directly to those begging on the streets.

The campaign brings together seven local charitable services – Community CVS, THOMAS, Nightsafe, Blackburn Foodbank, Red Rose Recovery, Rummage Rescuers, and the Salvation Army.

It features bus shelter adverts, electronic screens, and handout cards for local businesses and support workers.

A website has been launched at www.makekindnesscount.org.

The programme’s team manager Vic Holmes said: “This campaign is about encouraging a more effective way of supporting people who are asking for help on the streets.

“While many of those who beg are not homeless, they may be facing complex challenges including addiction or mental health issues, which require specialist support.

“We understand that members of the public give with the best intentions.

“However, giving directly to individuals can sometimes unintentionally sustain harmful behaviours.

“By donating to local charities instead, people can be confident their kindness is helping individuals to access the services they need – whether that’s support with recovery, housing, or improving their wellbeing.

“We’re asking people to make their kindness count in a way that creates lasting, positive change.”

Blackburn with Darwen Council provides 10 accommodation pods in Shadsworth occupied by people who have previously sleeping on the streets.

It also has emergency bed spaces at local hostels which provide accommodation to new rough sleepers during the cold weather months.

Cllr Damian Talbot, the borough’s housing and health boss, said: “We know that many people give to those begging on the streets with the best of intentions.

“But the reality is that donating directly to local charities is the most effective way to provide real help.

“We want to ensure that support reaches the right people in the right way, helping vulnerable residents access services that can change their lives.”

Blackburn with Darwen’s neighbourhood policing inspector Peter Norris added: “We are committed to supporting initiatives that address the root causes of begging and provide sustainable solutions for those in need.

“We recognise that street begging is often a sign of deeper challenges, and while enforcement plays a role in keeping communities safe, our priority is to work alongside local charities, businesses, and support services to offer real alternatives to those struggling.”