Central Park is becoming new tent site for rough sleepers

Plymouth council chiefs have confirmed it is tackling a rising number of tents being pitched in Central Park by homeless people. Members of the public have recently taken to social media sites, highlighting a growing number of small tents appearing at different locations around the 171 acre park which was created in 1928.

One person filmed a number of tents nestled up against a wall beside the Ford Park cemetery, lamenting at their presence, and another they found beside a footpath where dog walkers and families could be heard to make comment about the tents.

Another person took to a local social media site asking: "Is anyone else concerned by the number of tents being pitched and seemingly living in Central Park? There has been someone living in one since June near the cemetery entrance and in the last couple of weeks three more have appeared in other areas.

"Does anyone know who to report this to? If these people are homeless I'd like to make sure they are getting the help they need."

In response a Plymouth City Council spokesman said: "We’re aware of a number of tents that have been pitched in Central Park and our Rough Sleeper Team are working with the occupants to support them into more suitable, secure and safe accommodation.

"If you are concerned about someone who is rough sleeping, please report it to us via StreetLink - www.streetlink.org.uk. The PATH Rough Sleeper Team will follow up on all reports."

It is not the first time tents have appeared around the city. In October 2022 PlymouthLive reported on a number of tents being set up in the shadow of the historic Royal Citadel while in May 2023 we reported on tents appearing opposite the Crown Plaza hotel at Hoe Park.

Just last month PlymouthLive reported on a fire in one of a number of tents again set up beside the Royal Citadel.

Following our reports in 2022 and 2023 John Hamblin, CEO of Shekinah - the city's biggest homeless charity, based in Bath Street - said the presence of the tents were - as he had repeatedly pointed out - indicative of a more widespread problem in society which appeared to accept homelessness and poverty as inevitable rather than preventable.

How to help the homeless in Plymouth

1. Volunteer

There are many groups and organisations in Plymouth doing their utmost to tackle homelessness.

And a lot of them are always on the outlook for more people willing to give up a bit of their time to help in any way they can.

One Devon charity, Shekinah, is seen as a lifeline to many of Plymouth's homeless, which is a number increasing each year. The charity's drop-in centre, soup run and employability services are all much needed.

If you have some spare time and would like to support Shekinah by volunteering, then there are many opportunities to do so, including kitchen support and reception work. Click here to apply.

2. Buy them a cup of tea and have a chat

We are all human beings, and people living on the streets are no different.

It can be very lonely, and a lot of people would welcome a chat and a warm drink. Just five minutes of your time can go a long way.

If you feel comfortable doing so, buying someone a hot drink or even a meal is an easy way of showing someone else some kindness.

3. Think twice about giving money

Not everyone who is begging is homeless and not everyone who is homeless begs for money.

Police officers in Plymouth say kind-hearted people give cash to beggars thinking they are helping those who are down on their luck and homeless.

But they stress many are actually drug and alcohol addicts who do have somewhere to live.

These people then, police said, simply use the cash to pay for more drugs and booze and put their health – and lives – at risk.

"We ask that if you feel compelled to give money, that you do so by giving it to charity," said PC Dave Ryland.

Don't know who to donate to? Shekinah, Path, Shelter, Crisis and Homeless Link are just a few.

4. Help someone wrap up warm

Cold weather conditions can prove fatal for people sleeping on the streets. The average age of death for a homeless person is just 47.

Homeless shelters need bedding, beds, blankets, medical equipment, food, toiletries, sanitary products, and if no one donated them, they'd have to buy them.

Donating to food banks also helps, because it can mean the difference between someone paying their rent with money rather than buying food and ending up homeless.

If you are organising a large collection of donations, call Shekinah to see if they can help with transportation.

5. Campaign for change

Homelessness is not an issue that's just going to stop overnight, but the problem is only going to get worse unless there's long-term change.

This could be changes in council or Government policy to enable the creation of more social or affordable homes for homeless people, or Government funding of the charities involved. Or it could mean changes in the law that need reviewing.

John Hamblin, CEO at Shekinah, is on a mission to end homelessness which is becoming increasingly harder with Government cuts and the cost of living rising – but he feels it can happen.

He said: "If we keep saying it will never happen – then it will never happen. People sleeping on the streets is wrong. I will strive to try and end homelessness."

Late last year The Herald focused its Big Debate on homelessness. The debate was hosted by the Herald's advanced content writer Sarah Waddington and focused on what causes homelessness, how the city is helping the homeless population and plans for the future.

She was joined by John Hamblin, chief executive of the city’s biggest homeless charity Shekinah, Steve Ricketts, Plymouth City Council cabinet member for transport and housing delivery, and Gary Nash.

6. Donate to charity

Be it money or essential items, it will go a long way.

Shekinah is just one charity that needs your help, but there are many more. Donate today.

Click here to join PlymouthLive on WhatsApp and we'll send breaking news and top stories directly to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.