Metropolitan Police officers collaborated with University College London Hospitals and various partners on Friday, November 10, in response to concerns regarding the presence of approximately ten tents near the entrance to the hospital located in Huntley Street, NW1.
The hospital’s security team had sought the assistance of the police, citing their concerns for patient welfare as the primary reason for their request. These tents were situated on private property in close proximity to the hospital entrance and had remained in place for nearly nine months.
Reports received by the police included accounts of drug use and drug dealing, public urination and defecation, as well as incidents in which patients and hospital staff felt intimidated or were verbally abused by some of the individuals who were begging and sleeping rough at the location.
In an effort to address these concerns, partner organizations engaged with all individuals present at the site on November 6 and 7. They communicated the hospital’s intention to clear the site on November 10, ensuring that all parties involved were aware of the impending action.
On November 10, a Section 35 Dispersal Order was formally authorized. Two hours before the site clearance operation commenced, all individuals present at the location were given ample time to vacate the area. Almost everyone complied with this directive, with some individuals taking their tents with them while others left them behind.
The sole individual who chose to remain on the site was subsequently arrested for breaching the Section 35 order.
Following the operation, Veolia staff were responsible for removing the tents that had been left behind. However, the personal belongings and the tent of the arrested individual were not disposed of, as he was present at the location and had not abandoned his possessions.
In recognition of the complex circumstances involved, partner organizations extended appropriate support to those individuals affected by the operation.
The collaborative effort between law enforcement, the hospital, and partner organizations underscores the importance of addressing concerns related to public safety and patient welfare while also providing support and assistance to those in need within the community.
