Living in Manchester (highest homeless population in the UK whoop whoop) we have a lot of problems with people who aren't actually homeless soliciting donations

Living in Manchester (highest homeless population in the UK whoop whoop) we have a lot of problems with people who aren't actually homeless soliciting donations and then going home at night. A solution the council has tried is to provide people with 'proof of homelessness' a badge+lanyard. It's something to check for before giving any money/food, and I believe it's a required possession for certain forms of assistance (soup kitchens, shelters, etc.). However, I've been told by one homeless guy that they are traded away quite quickly to non-homeless beggars as the council will simply replace 'lost' badges. So it's two sides of the argument. Without some visual identification, people take the mick. Even with it, it causes issues.