ASB Awareness Week – Day 4

Why partnership working matters

Anti-social behaviour can be complex and, in many cases, involves overlapping issues such as criminal activity, safeguarding concerns, or environmental problems.

By working together with partner agencies, we can:

• Share information appropriately to build a clearer picture of what is happening
• Ensure the right organisation is responding to the right issue
• Provide more effective and coordinated support
• Take appropriate and proportionate action

Partnership working helps us respond not just to the behaviour itself, but also to any underlying causes.

Customers play a vital role in helping us address ASB.

We work closely with customers by:

• Listening to concerns and taking reports seriously where they meet the ASB threshold
• Providing advice and guidance on how to manage or report issues
• Keeping customers informed throughout the process where appropriate
• Encouraging early reporting and the provision of clear information and evidence

We also encourage customers to be part of the solution by showing respect for neighbours and being mindful of how their behaviour may affect others.

Where behaviour involves criminal activity, we work in partnership with the police to ensure appropriate action is taken.

This may include:

• Sharing information (where appropriate) to support investigations
• Acting on police evidence when considering tenancy enforcement
• Coordinating responses to serious or persistent ASB

In many cases, police involvement is essential, particularly where there are issues such as violence, threats, or drug-related activity.

We also work alongside local authorities and other specialist services to address wider issues linked to ASB.

This can include:

• Environmental services dealing with issues such as fly-tipping or waste
• Community safety teams supporting prevention and early intervention
• Support services for individuals who may need additional help

By working together, we can ensure that both the behaviour and any underlying needs are addressed in a balanced and effective way.

Our approach to ASB is not just about enforcement. In many cases, support and early intervention can help prevent situations from escalating.

Working with partners allows us to:

• Identify vulnerability or support needs
• Signpost individuals to appropriate services
• Encourage positive behaviour change
• Resolve issues before they become more serious

A joined-up approach to safer communities

Creating safe and respectful communities relies on a joined-up approach. By working in partnership with customers, the police, local authorities, and other organisations, we can respond more effectively to ASB and support those affected.

Everyone has a role to play. By reporting concerns, working with us, and showing consideration for others, we can continue to build communities where people feel safe, supported, and able to enjoy their homes.