Worshippers 'not threatened' by rough sleepers in makeshift camp

A church minister insists rough sleepers living in an illegal homeless camp in Stoke-on-Trent did not intimidate worshippers. Kathryn Stevens, from Swan Bank Church, has spoken out after the makeshift shelter in the doorway of the former Badsha curry house in Burslem was cleared away.

Those who had been sleeping in Swan Square have been issued with Community Protection Warning (CPW) so that they do not return. Anyone caught breaching the CPW faces a £100 on-the-spot fine or prosecution for a criminal offence. Cleaning staff have also been brought in to cleanse the site.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council had said the camp 'represented a threat' to the community and had caused fear among people working at the nearby Swan Bank Methodist church.

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But Ms Stevens., from the church, told BBC Radio Stoke that no-one at the church had been threatened by their presence. She explained that the church had done its upmost to support homeless people, including inviting them into the building to use the showers and get food.

She told the BBC: "It saddens us, but we don't feel threatened by it. These are human beings who have fallen on hard times... we just have compassion and want to care for people in the best ways we can."

The old Badsha curry house had most recently been used as a cannabis farm with 683 plants being uncovered across four floors in September. Officers forced their way inside - only to find other doorways had been bricked up. The building has not been used as a restaurant for at least four years.

Councillor Chris Robinson said: "Illegal homeless encampments represent a threat to the local community and are not the correct way to tackle the profoundly serious issue of homelessness."

Chief Superintendent for Stoke-on-Trent, Elliott Sharrard-Williams said: "“I’m pleased we have been able to work alongside the city council to tackle this issue and hopefully allow local residents to feel safer in their neighbourhood.”

Rough sleepers who need emergency help can call 01782 233696 during office hours, or alternatively 01782 234234 at other times. The r Rough Sleepers team can be contacted for free on 0800 970 2304.

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