Unofficial signs have gone up in Penrith town centre warning people not to give money to those allegedly presenting as homeless.
The area is frequently used by people with a sleeping bag and cardboard notes appealing for donations.
Now a cardboard handwritten sign warning givers to think twice has appeared in the area with a further message going up in the window of a vacant shop in Angel Lane (below).
People wanting to help the homeless are urged to give directly to charities working to support homeless people, which include Shelter, Crisis and The Salvation Army.
A trader in the area told the Herald that they believed it was a scam. People needing help with homelessness are advised to contact Westmorland and Furness Council on housing.services@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk
They can also telephone 0300 373 3300 to get help.
Street begging has been linked to human trafficking when people are brought to an area, or moved around, and forced to do things they don’t want to do, including begging. Begging is also regarded as anti-social behaviour by police.
