Week of action to tackle anti-social behaviour in Suffolk

The big picture: The initiative is part of National ASB Awareness Week and involves multiple agencies working together to address anti-social behaviour issues that affect local communities.

Why it matters: Anti-social behaviour can range from low-level nuisance to serious public disturbance, impacting residents' quality of life. The police say a multi-agency response is often the most effective way to tackle these issues.

The details:

• Police will deploy dedicated resources through their Community Partnership and Prevention Hub
• Local officers will conduct 'street meets' with residents
• School liaison officers will visit schools to discuss respectful behaviour with pupils
• The force is launching a social media campaign targeting 13 to 35-year-olds
• Officers will distribute information leaflets about anti-social behaviour

What they're saying: Supt Janine Wratten, force lead for tackling ASB, said: "We are acutely aware that ASB can affect you, your family and the community at large and can take many forms, from low level, persistent noise nuisance to serious public disturbance."

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore added: "Anti-social behaviour can have a devastating impact on individuals, neighbourhoods and the wider community and it needs to be addressed as swiftly as possible to avoid issues escalating."

Between the lines: The campaign will focus heavily on social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, suggesting a particular focus on preventing youth-related anti-social behaviour.

How to get help: Residents can report anti-social behaviour:

• Online through Suffolk Constabulary's website
• To their housing officer if they are social housing tenants
• By calling 999 in emergencies

What's next: Updates about local activities during the awareness week will be shared on police social media accounts using #MakingCommunitiesSafer.

The bottom line: While this week puts a spotlight on anti-social behaviour, Suffolk police emphasises it remains a year-round priority. The force says residents affected by ASB will be listened to and taken seriously, with cases reviewed when multiple incidents are reported.