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27
Jul 2022
Contactless donation points for homeless could come to Knaresborough and Ripon
Contactless donation points which raise money for projects to tackle homelessness could come to Knaresborough and Ripon under an expansion of the Harrogate Street Aid scheme.
Street Aid was the first project of its kind in Yorkshire when it launched in 2019 and it has since raised over £20,000.
Three tap terminals have opened in Harrogate town centre and now more could be introduced in Knaresborough and Ripon.
It is a joint project from North Yorkshire Police, Harrogate Homeless Project and Harrogate Borough Council, which is looking into possible new donation points.
Helen Richardson, community safety officer at the council, said the money raised so far was having a positive impact on tackling begging and rough sleeping, and that there was now an opportunity to expand.
She wrote in a report:
Why it started
Street Aid was introduced after the number of people begging in Harrogate town centre increased and residents became concerned.
It was based on schemes in Cambridge and Norwich which saw similar problems on the streets.
Donations made through the tap terminals are not given directly to homeless people, but instead made available for things like training courses, gym memberships and work equipment.
To highlight the project’s success, the council previously shared stories of how the money has helped individuals.
Read more:
- Homelessness in Harrogate — what's the best way to help?
- Harrogate College to undergo £16m transformation
One homeless man who was mugged and had his driving licence stolen was awarded a £350 grant to get his replacement licence and take a refresher forklift truck course to start his journey back into work.
Another individual who had a history of breaking into shops and substance misuse told probation officers that being able to access the local leisure centre would help him get in a better routine.
He was granted £500 for a leisure centre membership, training sessions and a voucher for equipment and clothing.
Three other homeless people were given £300 each for computer tablets to apply for jobs, maintain their benefits and stay in touch with family.
Councillor Mike Chambers, cabinet member for housing and safer communities at the council, previously said:
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