Last year, we launched a new approach to tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) and as part of ASB Awareness Week we’re reflecting on the impact it’s had in reducing ASB in the areas we work.
When we launched the approach, we introduced a refreshed policy for ASB and Neighbourhood Management, as well as an interactive ASB Directory. The new resources help customers understand how to report neighbour nuisance in the right way and offer guidance for issues that aren’t classed as anti-social behaviour.
Since we introduced our new approach, there’s been a
52%
reduction in the number of ASB cases opened
The number of ongoing ASB cases has also reduced. Where we’ve opened ASB cases under the new approach, we’ve been able to close them quicker as we can take enforcement action more easily. Customers have told us they’re more satisfied with our new approach than in previous years as we’re being clearer about expectations from the start, as well as the outcomes.
With our new approach there’s been a
6.31%
increase in the number of ASB cases with a positive outcome compared with the previous year
When ASB is reported to us by customers, properly evidenced and followed up through our new procedure, it not only improves things for that customer but also has a positive impact on the wider community.
The neighbours were evicted [due to ASB]. It’s now been a year since they left…Now our neighbourhood is so strong – we all got through it together. We’re a proper community now, we all look after each other.”
What’s happening next
We’re committed to reducing the impact of ASB for customers so we’re continuing to partner with Resolve to keep up with best practice and learn from other organisations.
We also want to:
- Use learning from what customers tell us in Neighbourhood Plans and through complaints to focus our work on localised issues
- Review the equipment we use to help evidence ASB. This might involve looking at improved noise monitoring equipment and/or equipment that can monitor the presence of cannabis particles
- Strengthen our approach to tackling hate crime
- Look at how we can tackle issues earlier on to prevent escalating ASB
Further information and resources about ASB
You can learn more about ASB in the following resources:
If you’re experiencing ASB, take a look at our ASB directory, or contact your Neighbourhood Officer.
