Stopping antisocial behaviour in its tracks

This inspiring story shows how working together can make a massive difference when tackling antisocial behaviour (ASB).

There was a big problem with fly tipping on The Groves estate in Penge. The caretaker raised the issue with the Neighbourhood Housing Officer (NHO) and as fly tipping is a criminal offence, it was reported to the police.

When residents then reported an increase in suspicious activity involving drugs around a blind spot in the same area, NHO Victoria Rees met with the local Police Safer Neighbourhoods Team and Bromley Council officers. It was decided in consultation with residents that a gate to block off this area would be most effective. We funded and organised the work.

The improvement has been amazing: fly tipping, drugs activity and trespassing have now completely stopped. The saving on the cost of removing dumped rubbish will be around £2,500 a year, so the gate will even pay for itself before long.

Wherever you are, you can do your bit too. If you’re suffering from ASB, or you’d like to join us on estate inspections, please contact your NHO on 0300 100 0303. If you see any suspicious or criminal activity actually happening, call 999 first.