Police are warning City workers not to give street beggars money as a report revealed the number of homeless people sleeping rough in the Square Mile has risen.
Last month, 27 people were found bedding down on the streets of the City compared to 16 in August.
The Corporation of London blamed the “failure of local authorities” to provide housing, a lack of hostel beds and a “shortage of affordable property in the private rented sector”.
A report due to be presented at the Community & Children’s Services Committee tomorrow also states the City is being targeted by “known drug users”. It says: “Some beggars, who are known drug users and in accommodation, are earning up to £500 per week begging — the majority of which is being spent to fund their drug addiction.”
The report adds that one woman in her eighties reportedly earns “in excess of £200 per day” from begging.
City of London police officers issue beggars with tickets and repeat offenders face being prosecuted and given an anti-social behaviour order. Police are advising City workers to give money to homeless charities instead.
