Top Sheffield cop makes this plea to people who want to help the homeless over Christmas

A senior police officer for Sheffield has urged people to donate money to charities which help the homeless over Christmas – instead of giving cash to those living on the streets.

By Michael Broomhead

Published 9th Dec 2019, 06:00 BST

Updated 10th Dec 2019, 11:23 BST

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Sheffield Inspector John Mallows made the comment after South Yorkshire Police this week launched a crackdown on begging in the city centre.

Insp Mallows said: “If you would like to donate to homeless people this Christmas, I’d urge people not to donate cash but to donate to a homelessness charity so that those who need it can get the right help and support.”

Officers have this week handed out a number of dispersal orders to individuals believed to be involved in begging in Sheffield city centre.

A homeless person in Sheffield city centre.

South Yorkshire Police said the crime is ‘particularly prevalent’ at this time of the year.

Insp Mallows added: “We have enhanced patrols taking place for the Christmas markets to provide visible reassurance to all our communities.”