The Homeless Person in Oakham, Rutland County Councils lack of responsibility

The Homeless Person in Oakham, Rutland County Councils lack of responsibility

I am sure many people here in Oakham have been approached over the past couple of months by the
homeless person from Ireland, who has found her way to Rutland.

Chatting to her today she tells me Oakham police have told her they will arrest her and take her to Leicester if she continues to ask people for any spare change.

I don't have any change to give her, but that is not a problem. she continues to smile. As I walk away she says

"if  you  don't see me in a few days you know the police have taken me away to Leicester"

What I do find very annoying is Rutland County Council is happy to pass on all its responsibilities to help
the homeless to neighbouring counties like Leicestershire.

When I lived and worked in London I was always told never give change because money is often spent on drugs and drink.

When this lady first found Oakham you would see her sitting drinking coffee now she drinks those very large cheap cider bottles from Tesco.

If the police do arrest and charge her with begging, I assume she will be held in custody for a hearing at Loughborough Magistrates Court and possibly receive a custodial sentence, surely a very costly way of dealing with Rutland's homeless. I don't blame the police for enforcing the law. Rutland County Council have no shame when it comes to its disgraceful homeless policy.

Another point is the lady who can not ask for spare change is expected to pay £3.00 for her one hot meal a week at the Congregational Church Drop in Centre.