We’re supporting ASB Awareness Week with the launch of a new online toolkit to help customers understand and report anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The toolkit brings together clear guidance and practical advice so you can recognise different types of ASB and know what to do if you experience it.

What is ASB?

Anti-social behaviour includes actions that cause harassment, alarm or distress. It can have a serious impact on people’s wellbeing and sense of safety at home and in their community.

It can include:

·      Noise disturbance

·      Hate incidents and hate crime

·      Drug misuse or dealing

·      Vandalism and damage

·      Problems involving groups or gangs

·      Neighbour disputes and communal areas

Our toolkit goes into detail on each of those, as well as outlining some of the activities that aren’t classed as ASB and directing you to some of the external organisations we work alongside.

You can report ASB online

When you report ASB, whether online or over the phone, you’ll be supported by a dedicated case handler who will:

·      Assess your situation

·      Agree a plan of action

·      Keep you updated throughout

Providing as much detail as possible, like when and where incidents happen, helps us respond quickly and effectively.

Where appropriate, we try to encourage an informal resolution or mediation. Quite often, open and respectful communication can open the door to a solution that works for everyone. Simple steps like having a calm conversation or explaining how behaviour is affecting you can often resolve some of the more simple issues.