Contactless payment scheme for homeless charities

A council has launched contactless donation points to help charities that combat homelessness.

Reading Borough Council in partnership with Reading's Business Improvement District has launched Tap for Reading.

The five tap points will be located around town and donations will be divided equally between four charities - Launchpad Reading, The Salvation Army, St Mungo's and YMCA Reading.

Karen Rowland, lead councillor for environmental services and community safety, said: "By giving solely with a 'tap' it ensures your funds reach the right people in genuine need."

The tap points can be found at locations including The Oracle, Broad Street Mall and Reading Station.

Donations are overseen by trained professionals to get individuals off the streets and back on their feet.

Funds will provide practical support and essential items such as clothing, food and specialist courses to people who are, or have been, rough sleeping in Reading.

Ms Rowland explained that residents often feel "uncomfortably put upon and compelled to give money when asked" which she said "only leads to an increase in beggars who are sometimes aggressive and not actually homeless".

She said: "Tap for Reading is now the best way to help our homeless in Reading.

"Together we can minimise the begging culture by not giving directly to those whose housing status or motivation may be unclear."

Su Hamblyn, CEO of Launchpad Reading, said the initiative was "a great way for residents and visitors to support people, who are genuinely homeless in the town, with confidence".

Dave Poulton, chief executive of YMCA Reading, said: "This is an opportunity for you to make a real difference via a network of local charities."

All money donated will go to the council's homelessness charity partners who will ensure that funds are used for what is needed directly.

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