Contactless giving scheme launched for street beggars

Contactless giving points are being created in Glasgow to help people involved in street begging.

Money raised will be used to pay for things such as travel to job interviews, training schemes and essential equipment to start work.

Glasgow Central station will host three contactless donations points, while others will be based at the The Garage and Cathouse nightclubs.

Charities including Simon Community Scotland, Glasgow Homelessness Network and The Big Issue have joined forces with the city council, the Chamber of Commerce and Police Scotland to create a scheme similar to one which operates in Manchester.

Businesses and other organisations will be asked to become ambassadors for the scheme by providing work experience for suitable candidates.

Firms tendering for council contracts will also be encouraged to give opportunities to street beggars.

Councillor Allan Casey, chair of the city’s Begging Strategy Group, said: “Glasgow is a generous city and people care deeply about those who are vulnerable and marginalised.

“They regularly give their spare change to people who are begging.

“This may help in the short term, but may not bring about positive, long-term change in that person’s life.”