Public Space Protection Orders imposed by some local authorities “criminalising poverty”, says civil rights group
A civil rights group has claimed that Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) brought in by some local authorities are “criminalising” people for rough sleeping, and has called for local authorities to move away from “sticking plaster solutions”.
PSPOs are applied to defined areas where issues have been identified that may have a negative impact on the local community's quality of life.
Issued under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, they can last for up to three years.
Last month, Durham Council approved a ban on nuisance behaviour in the city centre.
According to the BBC, more than 400 responses were received during a six-week consultation on the council's proposals earlier this year, with 83% in favour of the orders.
However, Liberty said: “We've seen authorities over the past 10 years using PSPOs to prohibit activities like begging, sitting in doorways and putting up tents.
“All of these behaviours are related to poverty and homelessness. Using PSPOs to address these behaviours result in local authorities effectively criminalising poverty.”
The charity called for local authorities to move away from “sticking plaster solutions” like PSPOs, and instead take “meaningful steps to address poverty and homelessness.”
Alan Patrickson, Durham’s director of neighbourhoods and climate change and chair of the City Safety Group, said: “The Public Space Protection Order will be used alongside a wide range of support and education measures to tackle certain anti-social behaviours such as begging, urinating in the street and the use of intoxicating substances.
“It has been introduced following concerns raised by Durham Constabulary, residents and businesses, with an overwhelming majority of people in favour of the order in a recent consultation.
“We are determined to ensure that Durham remains a friendly, welcoming and safe place for all who live, work in and visit the city. Using the PSPO, alongside other measures, will help to make sure that people are offered the support they need whilst also providing reassurance to the wider community.”
Lottie Winson
