THE Society of St James (SSJ) works with people who are homeless who may also face drug and alcohol and/or mental health issues.

SSJ see individuals facing substance misuse and homelessness as needing a response based on their needs, rather than finding their behaviour subject to legal restrictions.

There has clearly been an increase in the levels of begging in the Southampton and this is causing discomfort to many people in the city centre.

SSJ undertook a survey in the summer and spoken to 51 people who were begging. The most common reason given for begging was to get money for alcohol and drugs, with 75 per cent of them saying they were dependant on drugs and alcohol. Another issue twas that of problems faced by people trying to access welfare benefits, due to the tougher demands faced by claimants.

SSJ opposes the introduction of the public spaces protection orders, because threatening people with legal action is not an appropriate response to dealing with complex social issues. We believe people should be supported to help them overcome their issues.

TREVOR PICKUP CEO Society of St James