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.”
