Beggar crackdown in Islington

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Communities and also in Legal, Local Government

Beggars are facing a crackdown in Islington, after reports of aggressive behaviour towards passers-by.

Archway tube station has seen an increase in begging. Now Islington Council is working with the Archway Town Centre Management team and the police on a new campaign to tackle the menace.

Local beggars are being offered advice and support to get them off the streets, whilst victims are being asked to report aggressive incidents.

A poster campaign in the tube station asks that people don't give money to beggars.

Cllr Paul Convery, Islington Council's executive member for community safety, said: "We're on the side of residents, and are committed to an Islington with less anti-social behaviour.

"We're taking action in Archway after local concerns about the levels of begging around the Tube Station.

"Our teams will be offering help and support to beggars - and are working with police to tackle any aggressive behaviour, which is unacceptable.

"If we get complaints about anti-social behaviour, we will take action."

Chief Inspector Richard Padwell said: "This is a positive example of partners working together to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve the quality of life for local people and visitors."

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector Clare Messer said: "The local Safer Neighbourhoods team are working in partnership on begging in the Archway area.

"Support services and joint patrols are in place. Police will take action against aggressive begging, anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated."