Temporary Changes to ASB Services
The Coronavirus Act 2020 means we will also encounter changes in progressing legal action, particularly:
- Under the courts’ new overall working arrangements, extreme cases of antisocial behaviour will be prioritised, but there is still likely to be a delay in getting a hearing date.
- Due to the high volume of reports we are currently receiving, it may take us slightly longer to get back to customers who are making reports of ASB.
What to consider before reporting ASB
Approaching your neighbour
If you know who is causing the problem and you feel safe to do so, speak to your neighbour. Explain how their activities or behaviour is affecting you. They might not be aware and likely to appreciate you letting them know. This approach can often help to build and sustain neighbourly relationships.
Is the behaviour ASB?
Particularly when living in close proximity to our neighbours, sometimes they may do things that irritate us, but think about what they are actually doing and whether this is antisocial.
Keeping a Record
Write down details of the incident(s) when it occurs. When you contact us to report ASB, you will be asked for this information as it will help us deal with your concerns.
Anonymous Reporting
Although you may make reports of ASB anonymously, sometimes this can limit the actions we can take. Please be reassured we will not disclose your identity if you do not want us to.
Who else should I tell?
It may also be necessary for you to report the incident to another agency. If the incident is serious or criminal in nature, you should contact the police. If the incident relates to environmental issues such as pets, noise or rubbish dumping, then you should also report to your local council offices.
Local Neighbourhood Watch
People join Neighbourhood Watch or Home Watch groups to make the areas where they live safe, friendly and pleasant places to be, find out if there is a local neighbourhood watch scheme in your area.
