Bolton Council has installed new signs aimed at tackling roadside begging, which compromises the safety of motorists and pedestrians.
The signs, which state ‘Roadside begging puts lives at risk. Give instead to local charities who help those in need’ have been installed in key locations where roadside begging is a long-term issue.
The first ones have been installed at the junction of Topp Way and Kay Street.
Most people who beg in Bolton are not homeless and help is available for those who need it and choose to accept it.
Bolton Council’s Executive Member for Highways, Cllr Hamid Khurram, said:
“Roadside begging can be distracting for drivers and puts people at risk of road accidents.
“Giving money to people who are begging does not address underlying issues like addiction or poor mental health.
“A better way to help is to give to charities that provide a wide range of long-term support to move people away from begging and living on the streets.
“Hope for Change is a local charity that aims to help those struggling with issues that often lead to begging, such as drug and alcohol addiction, unemployment and poor mental health.”
How to donate
You can donate to Hope for Change via branded collection boxes in local shops and businesses displaying a Hope for Change logo.
You can also donate to Urban Outreach and mark your donation Hope for Change. They will pass your donation on to Bolton Community and Voluntary Services for distribution.
If you come across a rough sleeper, email housingoutreachteam@bolton.gov.uk (in confidence) or call the council’s Housing Options Services on 01204 335900.
You can also report a rough sleeper at www.streetlink.org.uk. The details you provide will then be passed on to the council.