Walsall Council is currently advocating for laws that would legally penalise begging, essentially criminalising homelessness in our town of Walsall. It's alarming that our elected representation is focusing on punishing the symptoms of a social crisis, rather than addressing its root causes. This initiative does not only infringe on individual freedoms but also fails to recognize the severe socioeconomic conditions that lead to homelessness. Official statistics in 2019 suggests that the UK has an estimated 280,000 homeless people (Source: Shelter). Instead of alienating them, we should be working towards providing them with better social security, affordable housing, and job opportunities. If Councillor Perry succeeds, he will set a worrying precedent that might influence other constituencies to follow suit. Let us unite to reassess these draconian initiatives and advocate for more compassionate and adequate responses to poverty and homelessness. Please sign this petition to show Councillor Perry that criminalisation is not the solution to homelessness.