Why it matters: The Anti-Social Behaviour Policy aims to reinforce the council's commitment to creating "safer, more welcoming public spaces for all residents and visitors" and ensuring people can live and work in environments free from harassment and distress.
The policy outlines "a clear and consistent approach" to addressing anti-social behaviour in town centres, parks, churchyards and private sector housing.
It defines ASB under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 as "conduct that has caused, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to any person", including vandalism, violence, hate-related behaviours, alcohol and drug incidents, and noise nuisance.
The approach: The council will use informal methods, including referrals to support services, mediation, acceptable behaviour agreements, and verbal and written warnings before considering legal sanctions. The policy ensures "incidents such as vandalism, intimidation, and noise nuisance are dealt with swiftly, effectively and fairly".
Partnership working: Developed in consultation with Suffolk Constabulary and other agencies, the council works alongside probation services, fire service, health services and youth offending service to tackle ASB. Cases requiring police involvement include aggressive behaviour, intimidation, violence and hate crimes, whilst the council handles noise complaints and fly-tipping through its Environmental Health Team.
For context: Under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, the council has a statutory duty to work with police and other agencies to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. The new policy complements existing Housing ASB policy and a proposed Managing Unacceptable Behaviour Policy to provide "a consistent and coordinated approach to safeguard both residents and Council staff".
What they're saying: Councillor John Cook, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Sport, said: "This policy reinforces our ongoing commitment to tackling and reducing crime and anti-social behaviour across the borough, including incidents in public spaces. It also clearly sets out how the Council and its partners will work quickly, efficiently, and proactively to deal robustly with those who are causing ASB, to prevent further incidents from taking place."
What's next: Following approval, the policy will be published on the council's website alongside detailed procedure documents to guide residents on reporting ASB and what to expect from the council's response. It will be reviewed regularly to reflect changes in law or best practices.
The bottom line: This policy provides clear expectations for residents on how their ASB concerns will be handled, emphasising early intervention and victim support whilst reinforcing the council's commitment to creating safer public spaces.
