Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Awareness Week Series – Part 1
As part of ASB Awareness Week, our housing management team has curated a series of articles which give practical advice and insight into four core themes surrounding ASB, with a focus on making our communities safer. Part 1 focuses on: Universal support for victims of Anti-Social Behaviour. The rest of the series will be published later this week.
Consistent, victim‑centred support from first report to resolution
It may be the case that the report is not, at that stage, serious enough to justify formal action, or that the evidence available is not sufficient to assist. In those circumstances, it is important to make clear to the victim that they are believed and that their report has been taken seriously, whilst also managing expectations. Victims should be encouraged to:
- keep detailed logs of incidents;
- make recordings where possible; and
- continue to report issues as they arise.
Early risk assessment and proactive practical victim support
Effective enforcement starts well before proceedings. Early risk assessment is critical to identifying the nature and level of harm, any safeguarding concerns, and the support needs of those affected. Taking time at the outset to assess risk properly allows for proportionate action, better case planning, and reduces the risk of issues escalating or evidence being lost.
This should inform a proactive and practical approach to victim support, helping to build trust, strengthen evidence, and reduce the risk of disengagement later on.
A focus on evidential support at an early stage is equally important. This includes
- preparing clear and consistent witness evidence;
- allowing individuals to review and confirm accuracy;
- explaining the process, timelines, and likely outcomes; and
- providing reassurance to support engagement.
Reassurance should sit alongside clear expectation management. Explaining the process, timelines and possible outcomes early helps avoid frustration and promotes continued cooperation.
Practical support should also be considered, including:
- signposting to support services or safeguarding teams
- addressing communication or accessibility needs
- ensuring clear, accessible information is provided throughout
Taking this approach early ensures stronger evidence and more resilient case progression.
Clear communication and regular updates
Clear communication with a victim throughout proceedings and providing regular updates can be a key way to reassure victims that their reporting has been taken seriously and is being appropriately managed. Where legal action is being considered following reports of anti‑social behaviour, it is important to keep victims informed of progress at each stage, for example:
- “we have referred this to our solicitors for advice”
- “our solicitors are in the process of drafting our application papers”
- “an application has been filed at Court, and we are awaiting a first hearing date”.
Once a case is issued to Court, proceedings can often be protracted matters where there is no meaningful update to be provided to the victim for extended periods of time. When this is the case, you should inform the victim of the slow nature of the Court process and advise them of any key dates so they know that, although they may not see it, significant work is still being undertaken behind the scenes.
If a victim is content to provide witness evidence at Court, they should be advised of hearing dates as soon as possible so they may make any necessary arrangements to attend.
Support at key stages including at Court
As matters move to court, the focus shifts to ensuring witnesses are properly prepared and supported through what can be a daunting process.
Preparation should be simple and focused. Provide key documents, revisit witness evidence, and explain clearly what will happen on the day. Reassurance is important, but should remain realistic.
At court, practical measures can make a significant difference:
Common measures include:
- screens so the witness does not face the defendant
- separate entrances, exits, and waiting areas
- remote attendance or video link where appropriate
- increased security or liaison with court staff
- interpreters or communication support
Small steps often have the biggest impact. Encouraging early arrival, ensuring a familiar contact is present, and providing calm reassurance throughout the day all help maintain confidence.
Support should continue after the hearing – explaining the outcome clearly, sharing orders, and keeping in touch on next steps ensures ongoing engagement.
Taken together, this support improves both the witness experience and the strength of the case.
If you would like to discuss further, please get in touch with our housing management team.