PCC Blog: Anti-Social Behaviour

Anti-social behaviour is one of the issues people speak to me about most often. Whether it’s persistent noise, groups causing concern in town centres, or behaviour that makes people feel intimidated, it can have a profound and lasting effect. ASB doesn’t just cause inconvenience – it can erode people’s confidence in their neighbourhoods and undermine their sense of safety. That is why tackling ASB is one of my priorities, and it is a priority shared across our public services. 

I work consistently with the constabulary to deliver against the national neighbourhood policing guarantee.  As a result, Avon and Somerset Police have launched their new Five-Year ASB Plan, a strategy that focuses on prevention, early intervention and the right action against the small number of people whose behaviour repeatedly harms others. The plan strengthens partnership working, improves how vulnerable victims are identified, and places greater emphasis on understanding community concerns.  

Good intelligence sits at the heart of this: reports from you as residents, insights from neighbourhood officers who know their areas well, and the information shared by partner organisations all help build a clear picture of where problems are happening and what targeted action is needed. 

As an example, we have seen the value of this approach in Weston-Super-Mare. Persistent ASB in the town centre had left too many people feeling unsafe. By bringing together council teams, voluntary organisations, specialist support services and neighbourhood officers, we have been able to make a tangible difference.  A visible presence, targeted support for vulnerable individuals, and practical tools such as CCTV, street wardens and problem solving patrols have helped reduce the most harmful behaviour and reassure the local community. It shows what is possible when everyone plays their part and when we listen directly to the people affected. 

For anyone experiencing ASB, knowing where to turn is vital. Reporting it really does help. Even small or repeated incidents add to the intelligence picture and lead to better responses. If you prefer to stay anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If issues persist and you feel not enough has been done, you can request an ASB Case Review through your local council. This brings agencies together to look again at what more can be done to resolve the problem. 

Victim support must always remain at the centre of our response.  I fund the Avon and Somerset Victim Support (ASVS) partnership that provides free, confidential help to anyone affected by crime or Anti-Social Behaviour, regardless of whether they have reported. You can contact ASVS on 0300 303 1972 or go to https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/avon-somerset/ to find out more.