Charity warns against criminalising 'nuisance' rough sleeping
There's concern the Criminal Justice Bill could lead to less rough sleepers seeking help
A homelessness charity operating in Bristol is urging the government to ditch proposed legislation that would make so called "nuisance" rough sleeping, a criminal offence.
The idea is reportedly being considered as part of the Criminal Justice Bill, which is currently passing through the House of Commons.
But David Ingerslev from St Mungo's told Greatest Hits Radio he fears less people will seek help because of the Bill.
"New legislation that criminalises people for something that's not within their control and choice, adds shame and judgement to people who might then hide," he said.
"Local authorities already have the power to tackle anti-social behaviour and nuisance, I don't see that there is a need for powers that relate to "nuisance" rough sleeping, it's not clear how that would be interpreted."
The government say no one should be criminalised for simply having nowhere to live, but that more powers are needed to tackle things like begging.