The UK government has unveiled enhanced support measures for victims of anti-social behaviour, aiming to provide better information and access to support services.
Improved Support for Anti-Social Behaviour Victims
The government’s latest update, announced on 9 January 2025, outlines a comprehensive plan to bolster support for those affected by anti-social behaviour.
This initiative is part of a broader Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan, which seeks to establish a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of anti-social behaviour across England and Wales.
Enhanced Reporting and Support Mechanisms
Under the new measures, victims of anti-social behaviour will have easier access to reporting tools and support services. They will launch a new digital tool letting the public report anti-social behaviour and track their cases.
Broader Impact on Community Safety
The Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan is expected to have a significant impact on community safety and well-being. By increasing police presence in hotspot areas and introducing the ‘Immediate Justice’ scheme, the government aims to deter anti-social behaviour and restore pride in local communities.
This includes dedicated funding to support Police and Crime Commissioners in targeting enforcement in high-incident areas.
Statistics and Implementation Details
- 1,039,579 crime reports related to anti-social behaviour were received by police forces in England and Wales in 2022.
- 16 areas will receive funding to support new policing measures, including hotspot patrols and the ‘Immediate Justice’ scheme.
- An extra million hours of youth services will be provided in areas with the highest rates of anti-social behaviour.
Government and Industry Response
“For victims of anti-social behaviour, the impact on their lives can be devastating, but for too long their needs have not been met, with varied levels of support and poor access to information.
These changes will help ensure that the needs of victims are at the forefront of how police and local authorities respond to anti-social behaviour and are another vital step in our mission to deliver Safer Streets, as part of our Plan for Change.”
Minister for Crime and Policing Dame Diana Johnson.
Progress and Targets
- The plan will initially support 10 trailblazer areas, scaling up to hotspot enforcement across all police forces in England and Wales.
- Perpetrators of anti-social behaviour will be required to repair the damage they inflict on communities within 48 hours of their being given a disposal by the police.
- The government will introduce a new Respect Order, imposing tough restrictions on persistent adult offenders.
Local and Regional
The new measures will have a significant local impact, particularly in areas with high rates of anti-social behaviour. Increased police presence and enforcement patrols in public spaces such as parks and public transport will help step up enforcement against offenders and deter anti-social behaviour.
Additionally, councils will have stronger means to revitalise communities by bringing empty shops back into use and restoring local parks.
Immediate Implications
The immediate effect of these measures will be a more visible and swift response to anti-social behaviour, providing victims with quicker access to support and justice. This approach aims to restore a sense of safety and community pride in affected areas.
Broader Significance
We expect this plan to significantly reduce anti-social behaviour, creating safer and more resilient communities.
By addressing the root causes of anti-social behaviour and providing robust support mechanisms, the government is taking a holistic approach to community safety and well-being.
