f. Tackling unauthorised encampments and other issues

Unauthorised encampments can raise public safety concerns, especially when large groups occupy public areas like parks, playgrounds, or roadways. 

Parish and town councils are essential in managing these situations, ensuring community safety, fostering social cohesion, and safeguarding public spaces. 

They can implement proactive measures to maintain safety while also respecting the rights and needs of both residents and those within the encampments.

Parish and town councils can address unauthorised encampments by implementing a variety of strategies: advocating for long-term solutions that target the root causes through collaboration with principal authorities, assessing the impact of encampments on public spaces, and maintaining clear communication with residents about ongoing issues to prevent misinformation.

Councils should also engage in dialogue with encampment occupants to foster understanding and share available support services, assist lawful eviction processes when necessary while ensuring rights are respected, and establish designated legal sites for temporary encampments that provide proper facilities, thereby encouraging their use over unauthorised settlements and potentially increasing site availability to meet demand.

NALC's campaign, ‘Tackling Unauthorised Encampments and Related Issues,’ is available on their website under the ‘Importance of Community Safety’ section.

[To access the NALC website, you will need to set up an individual account (SALC members only).  Video guidance on how to do this is available here - https://youtu.be/zapNDmP8jjY?si=jtXhLh0Wm5ANHrO4]