According to YouGov research in 2023, 1 in 4 people (26.9%) say that ASB has made them feel unsafe in their local area. An estimated 1.7 million people experience ASB at least once per day, every day (3.3% of UK adults).

We understand the impact anti-social behaviour (ASB) can have on you and your family, and we play an active role in addressing this. In addition to working with partner agencies such as the police and local councils, we are also a member of the Western Suffolk Community Safety Partnership, which works strategically to tackle criminal and ASB across the region.

So far, for 2024 -2025, 84% of ASB complainants have been satisfied with the handling of their ASB case.

We caught up with Scarlett, one of our neighbourhood housing officers, to learn more about how she helps residents with their ASB issues.

“When residents report anti-social behaviour to us, I want them to feel heard and know I will try to help them. I always ensure our residents clearly understand our next steps and how they can support us in managing their cases. It’s never as simple as a quick fix, but I want them to know that their communication with us is important, and it will be investigated.

I always try to manage their expectations as best I can early on. When a resident is reporting ASB, I want to know how it affects them and how it impacts day-to-day living in and around their home. This gives me an understanding of how they are affected and how we can help find a solution. Sometimes, we can’t always do anything, but we will always provide advice or signpost to support the resident.
By ensuring that I update the resident regularly, I can make sure that they don’t feel let down or are unsure of what is going on, which is very important when dealing with ASB cases.

Of course, when dealing with an ASB case, it can be challenging to resolve all of the issues. In a dispute, finding a practical solution that benefits both parties can be hard. In some instances, we have barriers dealing with ASB that are out of our control, but I will always try and do what I can to resolve the issue. Most of the challenges we face can be overcome, but I would say the biggest challenge is the time we manage multiple ASB cases, and sometimes that can restrict us from being as present as we would like to be.

However, a big highlight for me is when we close an ASB case, and the residents tell me things have improved and that they have no further concerns. It’s really rewarding to know that all parties have listened and taken on board advice and support, ensuring no further impact on other residents and the community, meaning people can enjoy their homes and where they live.

If you are experiencing ASB, there are multiple agencies who can help and support you regardless of the housing situation. Always do your research or speak to your local council if you are unsure who can help you. If you can and feel comfortable, try to resolve the matter yourself. I would always recommend this in the first instance to avoid escalation.”

Here are some compliments Scarlett has received:

• “I just wanted to say a massive thanks to Scarlett and the wider team involved in a recent ASB case as the issues are now resolved after a number of years.”
• “I would like to thank Scarlett and Kerry for everything they have done to help and support me. Thank you for your kindness and support.”
• “Top result, Scarlett really is an asset to Havebury.”
• “Thank you Scarlett for all your hard work and compassion. You have really helped me in a difficult time.”

If you are experiencing ASB and the behaviour is criminal, please call 101; if there is a risk to your life, always call 999.

You can report fly-tipping and abandoned vehicles on myHavebury. For anything else, you can call our Neighbourhood and Estates team on 0300 3300 0900 and enter extension number 7333 when prompted, or you can email the team at myarea@havebury.com.

We also have an online form you can complete.

The post Anti-social behaviour (ASB) Awareness Week appeared first on Havebury Housing.