Multi-Agency Approach in Stratford-upon-Avon to Help Protect Vulnerable People and the Homeless

Tackling begging, homelessness and people sleeping rough are complex issues, but Stratford-on-Avon District Council is working with partners to combat this.  

Last week Town and District Councillors together with key partners in the town came together for a multi-agency briefing.  

The aim of the event was to:

Raise awareness of the issues and complexities of begging, homelessness and drugs.
Provide an overview of 'county lines' drug supply in the town.
Share the multi-agency draft Serious & Organised Crime Action Plan.
Discuss plans, gaps and barriers.
Seek help and support in addressing these complex issues.

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council says: "Sadly the issue of begging is complex and sometimes linked with homelessness, but in most cases interlinked with drugs. The sad reality is that much, if not most, of the money given to beggars finds its way into the drugs trade. It is important that people realise this when they give money to beggars.

"This multi-agency briefing helped key partners have a deeper understanding of the issues facing Stratford-upon-Avon.  Having this insight will also help us all in the future support our local communities and make better informed decisions.  It is important that the District Council works with partner agencies and communities to ensure there is effective support in place for vulnerable people to enable them to have control over their lives, be safe and protected from harm." 

The District Council and other agencies provide a range of services aimed at reducing the harm experienced by those having to sleep rough these include:

1.    The Link Project based at Waterside that aims to engage rough sleepers and work with them to develop their capacity to move into accommodation.

2.    Housing First commissioned by the District Council and provided by P3, which provides self-contained accommodation and intensive support to move to a more positive lifestyle.

3.    Drug and alcohol services provided by CGL (Change, Grow, Live) aimed at supporting people to control their drug and alcohol difficulties.

4.    Supported temporary accommodation commissioned by the District Council and provided by Coventry Cyrenians, aimed at preparing customers to move on into longer term accommodation.

5.    Street Outreach commissioned by Warwickshire County Council aimed at engaging rough sleepers and moving them towards mainstream services.

All these services work together to move people who sleep rough, from the streets, through the rough sleepers pathway towards healthier and more beneficial lifestyles.

Cllr Tony Jefferson, Leader of Stratford District Council commented further: "There is help and support available; however there is a balance to be struck between providing support and tackling the drugs related issues which do harm to the community."