'There are legitimate and illegitimate beggars' - Leader promises to break up beggar 'gang' activity in Walsall

Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Garry Perry said that the council is looking at ways to deal with the surge of ‘organised criminal gang activity’ in a recent scrutiny meeting.

Councillor Perry said that there are 'legitimate beggars' and 'illegitimate ones', saying that the council is looking at ways to break up the gang of activity between beggars.

Talking about the issues, Councillor Perry said: “There’s legitimate beggars and legitimate people in need and illegitimate ones. What we’re seeing in Walsall at the moment in key areas, Station Street being an example of that, are illegitimate beggars. We are looking at the approaches to try to break up this gang of activity with these beggars. 

“The hope is we’ll get the relevant order that will ban them from the town centre, but without giving too much detail about that, that will be a matter for the court to decide upon. We’re getting evidence from shopkeepers and others to help us with that piece of work. 

“But as you know, if you get rid of one lot, a new lot will soon be there. It’s difficult to break up when it’s organised criminal gang activity, which is why we use intelligence to best effect.”

In the town centre, shoppers and shopkeepers recognised the issue. Jeff, a 44-year-old shopper from Walsall, said: “You can’t move 10 feet without being asked for change. I think it’s quite intimidating, especially for older people. Drug use is an issue as well. People approach me every day for money and cigarettes. 

“They come across quite aggressive. I think it’s getting worse, especially in the last five years since Covid.”

Another shopper added: “I have never seen so many beggars in Walsall town centre as I have today. We gave money to one but we can’t give money to all of them. There are people sitting about everywhere. It would be worth having a go at begging to see how lucrative it is.”

Usman Khalid has been working in the town centre since 2019. He recognised the issue but said it doesn’t affect him. He said: “There are a lot of beggars here but we don’t have any problems. If you see the situation of the country then I think it’s normal. I don’t think it puts people off shopping.”

A council has acknowledged the problem and is working to address the issue. A spokesperson said: “The council acknowledges concerns regarding begging in Walsall town centre and provides assurance to those working in, visiting and living in the town centre.

"The Community Protection team is actively working alongside the Rough Sleepers Initiative to address this issue.

“Together, they share information and resources to identify individuals in need of support and to take appropriate action where necessary. The council’s approach focuses on connecting vulnerable individuals with the services they require while also ensuring public spaces remain safe and welcoming for all.”

West Midlands Police said its teams also carry out ‘regular patrols’ in the town centre to target anti-social behaviour.

A spokesperson said: “Our teams carry out regular patrols in the town centre targeting anti-social behaviour and we work closely with Walsall Council to tackle begging within the town centre. We want our town centres to be thriving, welcoming places for locals and visitors alike and we’re working together with the council and other service providers to achieve this.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to report any concerns or incidents to Community Protection at Walsall Council via 01922 653060 or communityprotection@walsall.gov.uk.