This report looks at the case for repealing the Vagrancy Act 1824 in England and Wales. 

Overview

• The historical background to the Act, particularly the original intent and assumptions behind it and the fact its use has hit peaks and troughs over time.
• The current use and effects of the Act.
• The likely effect of repeal on policing.
• How effective support would involve better outreach but also a more nuanced approach to any anti-social behaviour and crime that is linked to rough sleeping and/or begging.
• Legal considerations and why the Act might not be suitable for the present day.
• Discussion of the way forward.

Reference

Morris, N. (2019) Scrap the Vagrancy Act. London: Crisis.