SWYDDOGOL - OFFICIAL

ELGC(5)-07-18 Papur 4/ Paper 4

Oddi wrth: Heddlu De Cymru

From: South Wales Police

Reply to proposed “Rough Sleeping Action Plan” February 2018.

Assistant Chief Constable Vaughan

14^th February 2018.

I submit my response to the proposed “Rough Sleeping Action Plan” proposed by WG set against the context of attending the Evidence meeting on Thursday 8^th February 2018.

The WG action plan (WGAP) is welcomed from a policing perspective which is one where our priority is to work with and assist partners in tackling these issues, with the focus being on avoiding criminalising those who find themselves in these circumstances.

In order to respond to the complex risks associated with homelessness, the Police Service is committed to:

o Keeping people safe

o Working in partnership to protect the most vulnerable people in society;

o Working in partnership to reduce anti-social behaviour;

o Working in partnership to prevent and detect crime using the appropriate legislation proportionately;

o Signposting individuals whilst referring persons resorting to begging to relevant support agencies. 

The WGAP echoes our stance as a force where the development of improved systems for monitoring and measuring the extent of rough sleeping, service outcomes which succeed in eliminating the need to sleep rough for which stakeholder involvement and commitment is paramount.

In taking the matter forward then the difficulties surrounding the accurate recording of this issue, is one area I would welcome receipt of any reports to assist in responding to this issue.

To better assist in prevention then the ability to understand the causes of the recent increase in rough sleeping and identify opportunities to improve its prevention, including the role and suitability of emergency and temporary accommodation needs to accurately reflect the position that most rough sleepers find themselves in.

The provision of this service in an “out of hours” capacity would clearly assist and a whole system approach to deal with those exhibiting complex needs is challenging.

In acknowledgement of support then the promotion of a positive message to the public regarding the best way to help a “Rough sleeper” is very important, particularly in terms of charitable donations and the difference between those involved in Street based activities and those who are homeless.

From an outreach perspective then again the provision of the services detailed within the Action plan need to be available on an “out of hours” basis.

Items 11 and 12 within the “Emergency Accommodation” section are essential matters to consider and implement.

Items 15 and 16 within the “Legislation and statutory guidance” section I agree with.

We as a force acknowledge that to measure the issue accurately is difficult and any national recording mechanism would be welcomed.

In conclusion, the issue of joint working, as mentioned at the outset of this report, is central  to resolving this issue. Access to substance misuse and health services is paramount to resolving this and a systematic approach in response to understanding the needs, will be the most appropriate way to resolve this issue.