Laura Sharman 08 April 2022

Consultation on replacing Vagrancy Act is launched

Consultation on replacing Vagrancy Act is launched image
Image: Peyker / Shutterstock.com

The Government has launched a consultation on replacing an 'outdated' law that criminalises homeless people.

It announced earlier this year it was looking to repeal the Vagrancy Act 1824, which makes it an offence to sleep rough or beg in England and Wales.

The consultation will shape replacement legislation and seeks views on how to respond effectively to begging, potential penalties for harmful begging and how to encourage vulnerable people to engage with rehabilitative support.

Rough sleeping and housing minister, Eddie Hughes, said: 'No-one should be criminalised simply for having nowhere to live, and it is right that we repeal the outdated Vagrancy Act.

'We must balance our role in providing essential support for vulnerable people with ensuring that we do not weaken the ability of police to protect communities.'

Campaigners, MPs and Peers have long been calling for the 'archaic' legislation to be scrapped, warning it is ‘inhumane’ and unfit for purpose.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Cleaner and Caretaker

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £13.47 per hour
Are you looking for a cleaning role that is a little different? Ripon, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Cleaner and Caretaker

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £13.47 per hour
Are you looking for a cleaning role that is a little different? Bradley, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Specialist Customer Service Officer

Oxfordshire County Council
£31,537 - £34,434 per annum
Are you passionate about helping others and making a real impact in your community? We’re looking for Specialist Customer Service Officers to join our dynamic Contact Centre team, the first point of contact for a wide range of essential services acros Oxfordshire County Council , County Hall, Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Cook

North Yorkshire Council
£13.47 - £14.13 per hour
Are you keen to join a friendly team who are committed to making a real impact in their local community? Lancaster, Lancashire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Catering Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£12.65 - £12.65 per hour
We have an opportunity to join our award-winning Facilities Management catering team. North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner