People urged to give money to local charities rather than beggars
'Change their lives'
Councillor Damian Talbot, executive member for housing and health at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "We know that many people give to those begging on the streets with the best of intentions. "But we want to ensure that support reaches the right people in the right way, helping vulnerable residents access services that can change their lives."Audrey Gaskell, from Clitheroe, told BBC Radio Lancashire: "You're better off giving to charities."If they're genuine I don't mind, but if they're on drugs or something, that's my problem."David Waddington, from Burnley, said: "I don't give them money. I always buy them a coffee or a sausage roll or something."The Change for Change - Make Your Kindness Count campaign brings together seven local charities and services.They are Community CVS, THOMAS, Nightsafe, Blackburn Foodbank, Red Rose Recovery, Rummage Rescuers and the Salvation Army.The council already works with local housing charities to support homeless people including accommodation pods for people who have been previously rough sleeping in the Shadsworth area of Blackburn, and emergency beds at local hostels.
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