The Exeter Against Begging campaign has caused significant offence by implying that all beggars are untrustworthy drug addicts undeserving of our respect or compassion. This simplistic portrayal of some of the most vulnerable in society does nothing to further social cohesion or address the complexity of the problems they face. Rather, it stokes fear and hatred and serves to further isolate and vilify those it purports to help. We demand that the current communications are withdrawn.