Begging & Meaningful Change

Begging in Stratford-on-Avon District

Individuals who beg on the streets can be intimidating, cause nuisance or can have a detrimental effect for local businesses. Funds obtained through begging can help sustain individuals on the streets, fund drug and alcohol addiction, and can cause anti-social behaviour, rather than helping them to seek help to make positive changes to their lives. This is damaging to the individual themselves and can also cause distress or harm to others and the wider community.

Begging that causes a public nuisance includes -

• begging in a shop doorway
• by pay machines in car parks
• sitting outside the theatre/pubs,
• actively approaching people,
• any other behaviour from begging that causes harassment or distress.

In the circumstances highlighted above, the police and local authorities determine the appropriate, proportional response, which could be a direction to move on, referrals to support agencies, warning letters or prosecution for a criminal offence. If you have witnessed an individual causing a nuisance through begging activity, please report it to Stratford-on-Avon District Council via the online ASB reporting form.

SDC Community safety team work closely with the SDC housing team, P3, CGL, NHS, & Spring Housing to ensure vulnerable members of the community have the full range of help and support available.

Homelessness, rough sleeping & housing advice

If you are concerned about someone rough sleeping or want further information about homeless or housing services in Stratford-on-Avon please go to the Stratford-on-Avon District Council Housing pages -

Homelessness Advice Leaflets

Rough Sleeper page

Homelessness Prevention

Housing Advice

You can also report someone rough sleeping to Streetlink via this link - www.streetlink.org.uk

Meaningful Change

It's natural to want to help someone who is homeless or begging on our streets. But how can you be sure your support truly makes a difference?

In Stratford, a range of charities work every day to support vulnerable people—providing essentials like food and shelter, and offering long-term help to change lives.

By donating to the Meaningful Change campaign, rather than giving directly on the street, you can help create lasting, positive change.

Why Meaningful Change Matters

In 2018, a local survey revealed:

• People genuinely want to help those less fortunate but aren't always sure how.
• Many feel frustrated that more isn't being done.
• Most donors would not give money if they knew it wasn't spent on essentials like food or shelter.

The Meaningful Change campaign was launched to address these concerns and show the best ways to help.

Our Campaign Aims

• Reduce vulnerability: Giving money directly can keep people on the streets and expose them to harm. Donations to charities help people move forward.
• Provide specialist care: Many who are homeless face complex issues. Your support funds expert help to tackle these challenges.
• Address professional begging: Some individuals beg without being homeless, diverting resources from those in genuine need.

Make a Difference Today

Your donation helps provide food, shelter, and long-term support for those who need it most.

To find out more and how to donate to the campaign go to - meaningfulchange.org.uk/stratford/