Lessons Unite Partners and Pupils in Fight against Anti-Social Behaviour

Community Safety officers are joining forces with police to visit schools as part of Anti-Social Behaviour Week.

The educational visits help raise understanding among pupils about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and its effect on victims.

This week is Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week, with a focus on the impact on young people and the importance of engaging with the wider public about their vital role in tackling the issue.

Cllr Jim Foreman, Lead Member for Housing and Community Safety, said: "It's important to recognise that the majority of our young people behave responsibly and considerately.

"These visits are an excellent opportunity to meet schoolchildren in a face-to-face setting and build a rapport, especially ahead of the summer holidays.

"This is about taking a preventative, early intervention approach and helping young people to understand what anti-social behaviour is and the impact it has on communities. Anti-social behaviour can be very intimidating, even if that is not the intention.

"It also highlights the potential consequences of being involved in this type of activity. We hope that our young people can enjoy the summer holidays safely and with consideration for others."

The visits are being carried out by South Tyneside Homes' Community Safety and Tenancy Enforcement Team, which deals with incidents of anti-social behaviour on behalf of South Tyneside Council, and officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Enforcement action can range from early intervention such as mediation and Acceptable Behaviour Agreements to formal action such as Parenting Orders, Criminal Behaviour Orders and Injunctions, which could be used in extremely serious cases.

Chief Superintendent Janice Hutton,  Northumbria Police's Force lead for anti-social behaviour, said: "The overwhelming majority of young people are an absolute credit to themselves and the local area.

"We do recognise, however, that the anti-social behaviour of a minority can have a detrimental impact on the communities we serve.

"That's why we run dedicated operations throughout the year to tackle pockets of disorder, support victims and bring effective justice against perpetrators.

"A huge part of the work we do also involves working hand-in-hand with partners, community groups, schools and the public in order to minimise incidents and help raise understanding about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and its effect on victims. This problem-solving approach is helping to provide longer term solutions.

"That's what ASB Awareness Week is all about, and I'd like to thank everyone for their ongoing support. By working together, we can continue to ensure this region remains a safe place to live, work and visit."

For further information about anti-social behaviour, visit https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/35092/Anti-social-behaviour

To report ASB to the council/South Tyneside Homes, call 0300 123 6633 or visit asb@southtynesidehomes.org.uk