Police taking action after reports of begging in grounds of Leeds hospital
EXTRA patrols are being carried out in and around a Leeds hospital after concerns were raised about begging.
Police said today that they had been made aware of visitors to St James’s Hospital being approached by people asking for money.
A number of the incidents appear to involve the same woman, who regularly asks people to help her pay for parking, food or travel to Leeds General Infirmary.
A message shared on social media by the Leeds Inner East Neighbourhood Policing Team about the increased patrols prompted a flurry of comments about the woman.
It was suggested that she sometimes claimed to be a patient who had come to the hospital without any money.
Sergeant Jon McNiff said: “We are aware of incidents where people have been approached for money, mainly by one particular woman.
“We are working closely with the hospital and the council to put in place a long-term solution to the issue.
“In the meantime, officers will be conducting additional patrols to reassure people and deter any further incidents.”