PCSOs 'went out of way' to help homeless man in Derbyshire

PCSOs Mark Rogers and Tom Smedley responded to a call at around 9.20am on Friday, January 10 from a local resident who said they were concerned about a rough sleeper that they had seen on a grassed area, off Maple Avenue.

They went along and spoke with a 46-year-old man, who turned out same person people had expressed concerns about near to Watchorn Church in Alfreton, but officers had never managed to speak to.

The PCSOs took the time to help him by setting up a doctor’s appointment that day to be checked over and gave transport to Chesterfield where he could fill out a form to get a new birth certificate and help him access benefits.

He was able to collect clothing and supplies to help keep him warm while in Chesterfield, and they also arranged an appointment with the homeless team at Amber Valley Borough Council and P3 Housing with a view to finding him some short term accommodation and hopefully off the streets.

People took to the Alfreton Police SNT Facebook page to offer praise and support and officers since had residents who emailed the force to thank them for their efforts.

PCSO supervisor for the Amber Valley Safer Neighbourhood policing teams, Dan Frederickson, said: “Both Mark and Tom went out of their way and took the time to help this man find local support which could get him off the streets, and I know PCSO Rogers is following up on the appointments.

“We hope this may be the starting block needs and I would like to commend both officers for their efforts.”

“The police only have limited capabilities in helping people who are sleeping rough or find themselves without a home, but we will always try to signpost people to the help that is available.”

If you believe that you have seen someone sleeping rough and would like to help them, you can report it through the Streetlink website, www.streetlink.org.uk.

You should call 999 if you think the person needs urgent medical attention, is in immediate risk of harm or a crime is being committed.