How can YOU support rough sleepers and beggars in Taunton?

The number of people who are homeless nationally has slowly increased over the last few years and Taunton is no exception.

You can regularly walk through the town centre and see somebody sleeping in a doorway or sat down begging which can be quite intimidating to members of the public, but what is being done to help those affected?

The RSI Team.

• Rough sleeping is a dangerous and isolating experience. Prolonged periods of rough sleeping have a significant impact on an individual’s wellbeing.
• The longer an individual experiences rough sleeping, the more likely they are to develop additional mental and physical health needs, substance misuse issues and have contact with the criminal justice system (collectively known as complex needs).
• People experiencing rough sleeping are more likely to be victims of crime and almost 17 times more likely to have been victims of violence in the past year (compared to the general public).
• Women are particularly vulnerable – nearly 1 in 4 have been sexually assaulted whilst rough sleeping. People with complex needs require an enhanced level of support in order to rebuild their lives and move away from rough sleeping.

• You can help with supporting the genuine homeless in Taunton by donating to OPEN DOOR.
• They not only provide basics such as food showers and clothing but also support people to move on from homelessness including – support for housing, education and employment, wellbeing and life skills.
• Money raised is used to ensure they can provide a rounded service that actively supports and encourages people to move on from homelessness.

The Local NPT meet each week with the RSI Team to support Rough Sleepers within the town ensure they feel safe and have access to day to day services.

It has been noted across the board that local businesses in and around Taunton have had a busy Christmas and a good start to 2025 however, there is plenty more we can all do.

Are you one of these that likes to travel outside of the area to do your shopping? If so, before you make that journey, please remember to take time to embrace what you have on the doorstep.

Did you know that as well as 'Shopping Local', your presence can help prevent criminal activity?

The more people that are floating about in the town centre, the more chance that witnesses can be sought so, you're helping out without even knowing it!

We have taken on board feedback from the local business community along with comments passed on by members of the public and you will now notice an increased police presence.

Over the last 6 months Avon and Somerset Police have been robust in dealing with shop theft and a number of the main offenders are now behind bars.

It's always refreshing to hear feedback and many of you stop us in the street to say 'Thank You' for being out and about providing high visibility patrols but don't forget, you can always get in touch anonymously:

Make sure you call us on 101 or CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111

Our local Neighbourhood Team are patrolling our Town daily and in the evenings engaging with the Street Warden, Businesses, Members of Public and Visitors to the Town.

Taunton has some AMAZING Open Spaces!

Sometimes we can forget that we have some incredible greenery right in the centre of the town so, lets enjoy them.

Vivary Park, Longrun Meadow, Castle Green to name but a few!

Managed locally by Taunton Town Council, the neighbourhood policing teams can be seen regularly patrolling these areas to make sure you have a 'sense of safety'.

Sometimes these areas of natural beauty can be used for inappropriate behaviours which can make those enjoying the spaces feel anxious.

The vast majority of the community who enjoy walking their dogs or going for a walk/run embrace these areas and take ownership so don't be afraid to report anything!

With the lighter mornings and evenings approaching our local Neighbourhood Policing Team are patrolling our open spaces and in engaging with all those using these wonderful spaces