Begging crackdown in Cambridge
Cambridge residents and visitors are being asked to give money to charities instead of beggars.
The city council has launched a campaign called Alternative Giving, which has the backing of the police and charities.
Catherine Smart, executive councillor for housing, said: "Give to the charities instead. That is a much more positive gesture."
The campaign uses posters, leaflets and social media.
James Martin, services manager for charity Wintercomfort, said: "Often, by giving money to those who are begging, people are just helping that person to maintain a destructive and damaging way of life.
"By giving to the charities via Alternative Giving people can be confident that their money is going to an organisation that will directly help people affected by homelessness to make positive changes in their lives."