Today, CRI is asking the people of Leeds to think twice before they give to people begging in the street, and to donate to local support charities instead.
Councillor Dobson, Inspector Nick Berry and representatives from CRI's Leeds Street Outreach Service and other local support charities St George's Crypt, BACIL, St Anns and LCC City Centre Management will attend a press launch this morning to raise awareness of our Think Before You Give campaign.
We know that street begging is often used to fund harmful drug and alcohol habits, so we're asking local people in Leeds who would like to help the people they see begging on the street to donate to local support charities instead of giving their money directly to those begging in the street.
People turn to begging for a number of reasons, and have often reached this point as the result of a complex range of factors. Local support agencies in Leeds are here to help people who are begging on the street to find permanent accommodation and regain control of their lives.
If you would like to help us to support people begging on the streets of Leeds, please text TBYG99£1 (or any denomination from £1-10) to 70070.Texting is free.