'Don't give money to beggars' - council

A council has asked residents to stop giving money to people begging on the street and donate to an official homelessness fund instead.

Doncaster Council runs a multi-agency scheme called Real Help Doncaster which brings charities and public sector organisations together to help rough sleepers.

Money raised by the campaign goes towards practical items such as furniture, clothing and travel passes.

The city's deputy mayor, Glyn Jones, said that supporting the fund would "address the root causes" of homelessness.

One of the people helped by the scheme, Hannah, said she had been supported since taking on her first independent housing tenancy.

She said she had been given assistance to budget and to buy cookware, bedding and clothing.

She said: "It has made a huge difference having these items as I am able to be much more independent and learn new skills."

Jones said: "Changing the way you can give can change lives. We're working hard to address the issues that mean someone could become homeless, through both the council and its partners in early prevention work.

"If you encounter someone experiencing rough sleeping, consider donating to Real Help Doncaster, rather than giving directly to the person rough sleeping."

Changing Lives, one of the charities involved in the scheme, said it was helping people "take meaningful steps towards independence and stability".

Director of development Kelly Cullingham said: "Through the Real Help Doncaster fund, we are helping people to change their lives for the better, supporting them to move away from some of the most difficult circumstances such as rough sleeping.

"By providing practical support like essential items, training opportunities, and help to set up a home, we are offering individuals the tools they need to thrive."

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