Fresh concerns have been raised over rough sleeping at a park in Swindon after reports emerged that a second person may now be camping at the site.
Swindon Borough Council has confirmed its Outreach Team will revisit Church Park in Stratton St Margaret following reports that another individual may be sleeping rough there, as work continues to support those already known to services.
Residents have contacted Councillor Marco Di Pinto over recent weeks about a man sleeping rough in the park.
He said: “Over the past few week, a number of residents have contacted me regarding a man sleeping rough and camping in Church Park, Stratton St. Margaret.
“More recently, reports suggested that an additional individual may also be staying at the location.”
The councillor said he had raised the concerns with Swindon Borough Council, which has been engaging with the individual through its Housing Options and Outreach teams.
He said: “I have raised these concerns with Swindon Borough Council, which has been engaging with the person through its Housing Options and Outreach teams. The council has explored accommodation options and continues to provide support and advice, with outreach workers regularly visiting the site to encourage engagement with the services available.”
Following reports that a second person may now be staying in the park, the council has confirmed its Outreach Team will attend the site to assess the situation and offer support where needed.
He said: “Following my latest report that a second individual may now be camping at the location, the council’s Outreach Team has confirmed that it will visit the site to assess the situation, offer support to anyone found to be sleeping rough, and help them access accommodation and other relevant services where appropriate.”
The council continues to work with partner agencies, including support services and Wiltshire Police, as it monitors the situation and seeks longer-term solutions for those involved.
He said: “It is important to remember that homelessness is often a complex issue, and finding a long term solution can take time. The council is continuing to work proactively with partner agencies, including support services and the police, to help those involved and monitor the situation closely.”
Alongside concerns about rough sleeping, residents have also reported alleged anti-social behaviour, cannabis use and alcohol consumption in and around the park.
Anyone witnessing criminal activity or anti-social behaviour is urged to report it to police at the time of the incident so that agencies have the best opportunity to respond.
He said: “Some residents have also raised concerns about alleged anti social behaviour, cannabis use, and alcohol consumption in the area.
“If anyone witnesses criminal activity or anti social behaviour taking place, the advice from both the council and the police is to report it at the time of the incident so that appropriate action can be considered.
“Prompt reporting helps build an accurate picture of what is happening and allows agencies to respond more effectively.”
He added: “I will continue to monitor the situation, stay in contact with officers, and push for appropriate action where needed, while ensuring that support is available to those experiencing homelessness.”
