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Antisocial behaviour (ASB)

Preventing and tackling antisocial behaviour is a priority for us. This section tells you what to do if you have a nuisance neighbour, or if you suffer harassment or domestic abuse.

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What is antisocial behaviour (ASB)?
ASB covers a wide range of behaviour, which includes but is not limited to:

  • Intimidation and harassment
  • Domestic abuse
  • Violence or threats of violence
  • Noise nuisance: e.g. loud music, persistent shouting/arguing
  • Rowdy, loutish behaviour and drunkenness
  • Pet nuisance/uncontrolled animals
  • Dealing or taking drugs
  • Graffiti
  • Damage to property/buildings
  • Dumping rubbish
  • Abandoned vehicles.

CLICK HERE to contact us about ASB.

Keeping safe - Youth information designed and produced by the AmicusHorizon Regional Youth Forum 

Domestic abuse
Abuse in a relationship can happen to anyone.  Whether it's family, friends, boyfriends or girlfriends - It's never ok. The first step in getting out of an abusive relationship is to realise that you have the right to be treated with respect.

What actions can be taken?
You can talk to someone, you can be removed from the situation and if necessary, legal action can be taken.

Keeping safe online  
There are many dangers online, people may not be who you think they are. Be careful what info you put online, it stays there forever.

  1. Zip it - keep personal stuff private
  2. Block it - block people who send nasty messages
  3. Flag it  - tell someone you trust if someone asks to meet you offline or anything worries or upsets you.

Bereavement
Learning to deal with the loss of someone is a huge challenge. A close network of loved ones and family can help but if you'd like additional support in managing your grief contact: www.childbereavement.org.uk

Stress - how to deal with it
• Get sufficient sleep
• Manage your time and your priorities
• Make time for relaxation
• Talk to someone about your problems (Don't bottle them up!).


Stop and search

Things you should know:
• Being stopped doesn't mean you're under arrest or that you've necessarily done something wrong
• If you are stopped by the police, you're required by law to stay for the duration of the search. If necessary, you'll be prevented from walking away.
• PCs must use the search powers fairly, responsibly and with respect for people without discriminating.
• PCs must make sure that the search time is kept to a minimum.
• The search must take place near to where you're stopped, except on occasions where moving you would protect your privacy.
• You'll be given a form to take away. This outlines the reason you were searched.


Streetwise

  1. Steps you can take to stay safe:
  2. Be aware of your environment and surroundings
  3. Don't display high value items e.g. phones, Ipods ...
  4. Avoid alleys and side roads
  5. Dress appropriately, don't display jewellery or anything of any value
  6. Respect other people's religions and cultures
  7. If you don't like what's happening, or a situation starts to get dangerous, LEAVE!

Peer pressure

Gangs are very difficult to get out of once you're in. Gang members can pressure you into doing things you don't want to do. Gangs can also lead to prison. Imagine the effect this will have on you and your family.Be an independent person and think for yourself - don't follow the crowd!

Bullying

  1. If you're being bullied, don't suffer alone. Tell someone close to you.
  2. Don't bully others! How would you feel being bullied
  3. Treat people how you'd like to be treated.

Smoking / drugs

If you don't want to smoke then tell that person or just walk away
Never just do it because other people are
Don't follow the herd!

Staying safe under the sheets

Did you know?
The legal age for sex in the UK is 16 years old

  1. Use condoms to avoid STD's and unplanned pregnancies
  2. You can get free condoms from your GP.  

Sex

  • Always say no if you don't feel comfortable.
  • It's your choice, not anyone else's
  • Do not try to impress people, if you're not ready just say no.

RESPECT charter

In May 2012 we received RESPECT, the Housemark accreditation for ASB. We met their seven commitments to ASB handling. This accreditation recognises good practise and give us ideas to improve our services in the future.

What action will you take?
We take antisocial behaviour seriously. We always try to resolve cases without legal action and use mediation where possible. Mediation to is where an independent person discusses the problem with all involved. It's free and often helps resolve the problem. We'll discuss options and work with you to decide on the best action to take.We'll take the best course of action using the information available. To find out more about the actions we will take please download our adobepdf icon Anti Social Behaviour Statement [410kb]

What should I do if my neighbour is causing problems?
You may be able to solve the problem yourself by talking to your neighbour. See if you can find a way to sort the problem out - for example agreeing times when children can play. Try not to shout or lose your temper as this can make the situation worse. it can also lead to action being taken against you. Try to think how you would like to be spoken to.

What if my problem is more serious?
If you're a victim of crime or serious ASB, such as racial harassment, we may be able to take legal action straight away. There are a number of types of legal action we can take when we've clear evidence to take to court. We'll discuss with you and refer the case to the police if a crime has been committed. If you want to take legal action yourself, we can support you.

What if I am suffering from abuse from someone in my home?
Domestic abuse means threats or acts of harassment or assault by someone living with you. It can also include mental, physical or sexual abuse. If you're a victim, don't suffer in silence. Domestic abuse is a crime and we'll support you. Please contact us straight away. Find out more about the help available at the National Domestic Violence Helpline Website.

What can I do if I am being harassed because of my race, nationality, religion, sex or sexual identity or disability?
We do not accept any form of hate crime and take report seriously. Please Contact us straight away. For more information download our adobepdf icon Reporting Racism & Harassment leaflet [246kb] or find more information at the Home Office website.

Can you move me away?
We aim to sort out cases and keep you in your home. In very serious cases, court may allow us to evict the person causing the problem. However, we'll consider moving you to a new property if you want and there is a serious threat to your safety.

For more information, please see our adobepdf icon Anti-social Behaviour Procedure [126kb], adobepdf icon Strategy for tackling Anti-social Behaviour 2010-2013 [213kb] or adobepdf icon ASB action list [112kb]