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What's the proper way to deal with someone begging?

I walked through my local highstreet, for the most part I spend my time walking around with earphones in.
Anyways one woman spotted me coming and attempted to ask me for money, I chose to ignore her.
The second woman less than 5ft away tried the same thing.

I do feel guilty as i feel like if I give to one I have to give to them all.

What bothers me is that here in the uk, you can claim benefits.
But I worry these people are not here legally.
And I worry if I stop and talk someone might mugg me.

I'm not judging, I just avoid talking to them because on another seperate occasion recently one woman swore at me for saying I no longer walk with change, which since the pandemic is true.

😔

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TinyViolins · 36-40, M

"I'm sorry, I can't" usually does the trick. They're not trying to hurt you, they're just trying to survive. If you don't feel comfortable or safe giving money, then don't. It's not this big of a problem usually. These people are used to hearing 'no' all day.

There are usually charities, churches, food kitchens, homeless shelters and homeless services out there to pitch in. You don't have to feel as if you have to solve the problem yourself. We're only human; you, me, and them

Mellowgirl · 31-35, F

@TinyViolins thank you...
Ordinarily would have said I'm sorry I don't have the change.
But they seem to beg in groups and that's why I'm mindful of what I say, if I say anything at all. But I hear what you are saying!

TinyViolins · 36-40, M

@Mellowgirl I think they may get more upset at the disrespect rather than the lack of money. Like there are times where it's not about what you say, but how you say it. As long as you acknowledge that they're just doing what they have to do to get by, rather than doing something to bother you, then it's a lot less dehumanizing for them