9 hours ago
Police target junction for begging after people spoken to 'dozens of times'
Police have spoken to homeless people "dozens of times" over the last eight months as part of efforts to stop begging at a specific junction.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said that the Bolton neighbourhood team has been taking a direct and targeted approach to vulnerable people.
They said they regularly patrol areas where they are known to visit or pass through, and provide them with checks and signpost those in need.
Police have focused efforts on the area where the A666 meets Topp Way, as many people have reported begging in the area.
This includes on the streets and at traffic lights.
Officers can signpost homeless people to support services offered by the local authority, charities and partners.
However, they can also issue out punishments when needed.
The first is usually a community protection warning, which tells people to change their behaviour if it is causing problems in the area.
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If they still do not change their behaviour, a community protection notice can then be given - which can lead to a criminal behaviour order.
Both provide specifications for the recipient to follow.
Prosecution is an option for the last resort, if none of the notices or orders have been obeyed.
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Sergeant Zach Keneally, from GMP's Bolton Neighbourhood Team, said: 'We work incredibly closely with our local partners to ensure that those who need help in our communities get the assistance they need.
'While we will always first seek to engage and support, we will never hesitate to take the appropriate action when criminal offences are committed and it the right course of action.
'Ultimately, we are there to serve Bolton in multiple ways, and engagement and support for those who may be vulnerable or at risk of falling into crime is a key part of ongoing prevention work.'
