Blackpool woman claims to be homeless despite 'having place to live and financial support'

Blackpool Police have issued a warning after receiving reports a woman pretended to be homeless in an attempt to get money.

There have been numerous instances of a woman approaching residents in Central Drive claiming to be homeless before asking for money, according to police.

The woman knocked at the door of a house and asked the resident for money on Monday afternoon (May 18).

When he said he had no money on him she asked him to go to the cash point and withdraw some money for her.

A spokesperson for Blackpool Police said: "Through local knowledge we have been able to identify this female and we know that she is not homeless and has a place to live with the relevant financial support in place.

"We would urge you all not to give money out to anyone you don’t know.

"However, we are fully aware that the stories that are given may sound very convincing and may paint a completely different picture to the reality of the situation."

Here's how to help someone who's sleeping on the streets

If you’re worried about a person you’ve seen sleeping rough, StreetLink can help.

Tell StreetLink about the person and where they are sleeping through StreetLink's website or app.

StreetLink will pass the details to the local council or outreach team.

The council or outreach team may:

- find the person

- offer support to help them off the streets

You can also contact your local Salvation Army.

Call 999 if you think the person sleeping rough needs urgent medical assistance.