Operation Reclaim assists rough sleepers while addressing antisocial behaviour in Nottingham
Multi-agency initiative provides support and enforces public safety measures in city centre
A collaborative initiative named Operation Reclaim is underway in Nottingham, targeting assistance for rough sleepers while tackling associated antisocial behaviour in the city centre.
Launched after the repeal of the Vagrancy Act on 29th June, the law change means rough sleeping is no longer a criminal offence in the UK.
Police officers, alongside Nottingham City Council and Framework, are directing individuals toward support services like emergency accommodation, mental health care, and substance misuse treatment.
While the focus is on assistance, police are authorised to intervene when rough sleeping or begging intersect with obstruction, harassment, or aggressive behaviour.
Enforcement Measures
Police utilise move-on powers and Community Protection Notice Warnings (CPNWs) in instances of public disturbance.
During joint patrols with the Street Outreach Team on 15th July, plain-clothed and uniformed officers assisted a car park security guard as a rough sleeper refused to leave a stairwell, necessitating police action.
Neighbourhood officers frequently arrest rough sleepers for offences such as retail crime, public order violations, and drug crime.
Operation Reclaim, initiated in May, seeks to tackle problems in Nottingham’s city centre, says Sergeant Cai Kemish of the City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Kemish stated that collaboration with partner agencies ensures rough sleepers access necessary support while police respond to antisocial behaviour.
Community and Partner Contributions
Councillor Matt Shannon, Executive Member for Community Protection, praised the initiative for providing critical assistance to those in need while addressing aggressive begging.
The collaboration introduces Community Protection and Safety Partnership Officers to engage communities and manage antisocial behaviour.
Dave Newmarch, Director of Property & Housing Services at Framework, emphasised the impact of joint outreach activities and encouraged public engagement through the Street Outreach Team.
Residents concerned about rough sleepers can contact Framework’s Street Outreach Team at 0800 066 5356.