nuisance news issue 45
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nuisance newsThe quarterly newsletter of the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group Issue 45 Mar 2008
This issue includes articles from
the following:-
Anthony Collins Solicitors
Aspire Housing
Atlantic Housing
Bowlee Park Housing
Coast & Country Housing
Chelmer Housing Partnership
Colchester Borough Homes
Cross Keys Homes,
CSHS
Derby Homes
First Choice Homes
Gateshead Housing Company
Hammersmith and Fulham Homes
Harvest Housing
Hermitage HA
Hyde HA
New Charter HA
Newham Council
New Progress HA
One Vision Housing
Oxford Citizens HA
Poplar HARCA
Redditch BC
SHAARP
Sheffield Homes
Southampton City Council
South Essex Homes
South Somerset Homes
Swansea Council
Three Valleys Housing
Vale HA
Wales &West HA
Whitefriars Housing Group
Wigan and Leigh Housing
Whiteheads Solicitors
This issue
ocial LandlordsCrime and Nuisance Group
Full steam ahead.... 2008 promises to be our busiest year yet
Arrangements are being firmed up for our conference to be held in Telford at
the International Centre on 7th and 8th October. In response to Member’s
views we are staging it over two days but retaining the workshop format that
has proved to so popular over the years.We will be able to cater for more
delegates and expect high profile speakers as well as a bigger exhibition.
Watch out for more details as the programme develops but put the date in
your diary.
Training
Sharon Mackley is expanding our training service this year, starting with the
extremely popular workshops on Mental Health Issues and the Disability
Discrimination Act [more details elsewhere in this edition].The Regional
Meetings continue to deliver a range of useful sessions for our Members and
we are also looking at ways that we can work with other agencies to deliver
training to a broader range of partners.
Accreditation
Following the success of the Respect Performance Improvement Toolkit
developed jointly with HouseMark, we are now investigating the possibility of
producing a service for social landlords that will give them an evaluation of
the way that they tackle anti-social behaviour.
If the stand-alone regulator/OFTENANT develops in the way we anticipate,
the “lighter touch” inspections that should be part of that future regime
would be influenced by the sort of “accreditation” that we are developing. At
this stage we have the support of the Audit Commission, which is working
with us to get the scheme off the ground.We are also fortunate to be able to
work with other partners who have similar experience, such as CSHS, ENCAMS
and TPAS.
Wales and Scotland
We will be opening up better links this year with colleagues in Wales,
particularly through theWales ASB Forum, but also in supporting individual
Groups and working on our relationship with theWelsh Assembly
Government.
Editorial
2
continued from page 1
We are looking at ways in which we can support social
landlords in Scotland in tackling anti-social behaviour
and we will be at the CIH conference in Aberdeen in
March to improve our links and, hopefully, attract more
Members.
Respect
Finally, what about “Respect”? We haven’t seen an
obituary, but there doesn’t seem to be much life in the
Respect Agenda.The Government line is that the work
on Respect continues, but nobody is very clear about
who is delivering on it. Of course social landlords
continue to receive support from DCLG in the generality
of their work to tackle ASB, but other Government
Departments [particularly the Home Office and DCSF]
have increasingly high expectations that social landlords
will take on an ever- broadening range of responsi-
bilities. Typical of this expectation is the assumption by
DCSF that the delivery of parenting support will become
part of social landlords’mainstream business, as
evidenced by the Guidance issued in November 2007.
Perhaps nobody would argue with the philosophy
behind this assumption but the lack of a coherent
approach across Government implies that the “silo
approach”of the Government strategy to tackle ASB is
leading to unrealistic expectations of social landlords
and a lack of clear direction for us all.
For our part we continue to lobby the three major
players [DCLG/DCSF/Home Office] for
some clarity and leadership.
Peter Jackson,
Managing Director
David Blunkett to addressThe National Shelteredand Supported Housing
Congress 2008A rare opportunity to hear the former Home
Secretary in person.
CSHS is delighted to announce that the Rt. Hon. David
Blunkett MP will speak at The National Sheltered and
Supported Housing Congress and Exhibition 2008.
As Secretary of State for Education and Employment
Blunkett developed the Learning and Skills Councils,
created Job Centre Plus and launched the New Deal
which created over 100,000 jobs for young people.
He also launched the Commission for Racial Equality
and chaired the Equal Opportunities Commission.
Blunkett led a reform of the civil services; adapting the
role of the Home Office to meet new challenges whilst
maintaining the lead in immigration, drugs, crime and
policing.
Christine
Walker, CSHS
Director said,
“David Blunkett
has a
reputation for
being
outspoken and
I’m certain he
will make a
memorable
contribution to
the Congress.
As Home
Secretary,Mr Blunkett urged people from ethnic
minorities to develop a "sense of belonging" in Britain;
it will be interesting to hear his take on our overall
Congress theme of Striving for Safe, Strong, Sustainable
Communities.”
The National Sheltered and Supported Housing
Congress and Exhibition 2008 will take place on the 5
and 6 June at the superb Oxford Barceló Hotel.
For more information visit www.cshs.co.uk/congress.
National recognitionfor JuniorWardens andMentors SchemeThe Bowlee Park Housing Association Junior Warden
Scheme has received national recognition in a
Government report recommending the scheme be
copied nationwide.
The Empowering People report stated how: “becoming a
junior warden is a matter of pride for some people” and
cited the Bowlee Park scheme as best practice.
This hugely popular scheme is aimed at children
between six and 12 years old and currently has 170
members. It was introduced in 2003 to tackle high levels
of youth nuisance in the area which, following research
by the NeighbourhoodWardens, was attributed to lack of
provision and positive role models in the area for junior
school children.
This groundbreaking initiative has attracted interest from
wardens schemes as far a field as Wrexham, Liverpool,
South London and even The Isle of White who have all
introduced junior warden schemes based on the
methods developed by the Bowlee Park team.
The Junior Wardens have also received national publicity
with features on BBC One’s flagship children’s current
affairs programme – Newsround, Radio One’s Newsbeat
programme as well as coverage on BBC Radio Four and
BBC Radio Suffolk.
Colin Whitley,Warden Supervisor said “Being a junior
warden is not just about attending activities, it’s about
taking pride in and respecting your community.
“A junior warden’s job is to report things like fly tipping,
graffiti, broken windows, vandalism, and discarded
hypodermic syringes while they go about their day to
day normal activity. So in effect they are on duty 24
hours.’
“The scheme is so successful that most children want to
carry on their good work once they reach the age of 12
which led to us introducing the Junior Warden Mentors
for children 12 years and above who have also been
junior wardens. Since the project was introduced in 2003
instances of anti-social behaviour from children in this
age range has been virtually eliminated.”
Positive activities over the last twelve months have
included a sponsored pyjama walk for Children in Need,
a Christmas hampers appeal for our elderly tenants and
intergenerational poem writing with the local elderly day
care centre based
around respect.”
Member’s News
Excluded from flatA former Aspire Housing customer has been excluded
from his flat after being arrested four times for breaking
a Court Order.
The tenant had been subject to a County Court
injunction in January 2008 preventing him from making
any loud noise between 8pm and 8am; having more
than two visitors, harassing, intimidating or pestering
any other residents in the local area.
The prohibitions were ordered by a County Court
District Judge after evidence had been presented of
noisy, drunken parties of large numbers of youths.
Helen Scurr, Head of Housing Services at Aspire
Housing, said:“We are committed to promoting positive
social behaviour as well as tackling anti-social
behaviour. Our customers are at the heart of everything
we do and we work hard to provide them with the
reassurance and support they need.
She continued:“This is a fantastic outcome for us. We
work with a number of agencies in the local
neighbourhoods to empower our customers to take
action and
in this case
it really paid
off.”
Like to knowmore then contact:
Jeff Allen 01706 674353
Like to knowmore then contact:
Wendy Dale, 01782 635200 extn. 4841
wdale@aspirehousing.co.uk
3
Member’s News
4
Hard hat hero!
One Vision Housing has awarded a workman with a
‘Community Hero’ award after his quick actions saved
the life of one of its tenants.
Sean Pellett (20) from FOZ Electrical, a subcontractor of
Kier, was working on the home of George Hughes (79), as
part of the One Vision Housing Decent Homes
programme,when Mr Hughes collapsed and hit his head
on a chest of drawers causing serious injury.
Mr Hughes had fallen unconscious and was barely
breathing when Sean reached him.He instructed a
colleague to call an ambulance and placed Mr Hughes
into the recovery position, comforting him and his wife
until the paramedics arrived.
It was later discovered that Sean’s actions had saved Mr
Hughes’ life as he had suffered an aortic rupture and two
heart attacks, and spent the next two weeks in hospital.
The award – the first of its kind – was presented to Sean
at the home of Mr Hughes by One Vision Housing Chief
Executive RoyWilliams.
Mr.Williams said:“Everyone at One Vision Housing would
like to give our most sincere thanks to Sean for his
actions. By keeping a cool head and reacting quickly in
this situation he has saved a life and we feel that he fully
deserves this recognition as a token of our appreciation.”
Mr Hughes said:“I cannot thank Sean enough for what
he did.Without his help I simply would not be here right
now and he fully deserves all the praise he receives.”
John Quirk, Senior Operations Director for KBM said:“Kier
is very proud of Sean’s actions and we try to encourage
this behaviour in all our employees as Health and Safety
is one of our key priorities.We’d like to applaud Sean and
thank him for his great work with Kier.”
Speaking at the presentation Sean said:“I am very
grateful to One Vision Housing for this award, however I
feel that I was only doing what anyone would have done
in the same situation and I am extremely glad that Mr
Hughes managed to hang on until the paramedics
arrived and that he is alive and well.”
Closure orderafter drugs raid
Poplar HARCA, Bromley by Bow safer neighbourhood
team and the Bethnal Green Police partnership unit
were granted a three month Closure Order from
Thames Magistrates Court on a property in Bow .
A closure order is an order granted by the courts so that
the police can close a property for up to three months,
if a property is being used for suspected illegal
activities. Any visitors would be liable to arrest under
powers from the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003
During this time Poplar HARCA will apply to the court
for a Possession Order.
The Closure Order was granted after police discovered
drugs paraphernalia used for Class 'A' drugs during a
drugs raid in December. It also came after complaints
from neighbours concerned about the number of
people visiting the flat and smoking drugs in the
stairwell.
Acting Sergeant, Aidan Kelly, said: “This involved good
partnership working between the safer
neighbourhoods team, Crime Partnership unit and
Poplar HARCA.We will continue to act on information
received from the local community.”
“Obtaining a closure order on this property is an
excellent result for residents who have had to endure
continuous anti-social behaviour from the tenant and
his visitors. We would not have been able to obtain this
result without the assistance of our partners but
especially the residents that reported the problems
they were experiencing to us.”
Like to knowmore then contact:
Darren Nugent, 0151 934 3451
darren.nugent@ovh.org.uk
Members News
5
Highly successful
training eventsOver 250 people attended two joint training
events held in Redcar and Cleveland on training
together to tackle ASB and crime.
They were organised by the Police, in
conjunction with Coast & Country Housing and
the Council and brought together a range of
front line staff who are involved in delivering
Neighbourhood Policing.
Neighbourhood Police Officers and PCSOs
attended workshops along with Coast & Country
staff, Community Safety Wardens, the Council’s
ASB team and other staff. The workshops gave
delegates an insight into what each of the
agencies can do to make Neighbourhood
Policing a success.
In the spirit of partnership working, Chief
Constable Sean Price, Councillor Dave McLuckie,
and Iain Sim, Coast & Country’s Chief Executive
opened the events jointly.
Iain Sim said “Consultation with our residents
tells us that their biggest concerns are crime,
anti-social behaviour and environmental issues
such as vandalism and graffiti and as a housing
provider we cannot resolve this on our own.Our
participation in delivering this event and the
commitment of our staff attending the training
shows that we are passionate about working
alongside our partners to improve our
neighbourhoods and the quality of life for our
residents’”
Feedback from staff who attended the event
was excellent and new contacts made are being
used to tackle problems and reassure residents
that everyone is working together to deal with
their Policing and ASB priorities.
Further joint training events are planned
Doing somethingpositive for their
local communityYoung offenders are being given the opportunity to learn new
skills and improve their behaviour thanks to a new partnership.
FROGlife has partnered with Cross Keys Homes,Mears and Lovell
to set up a new project, which will help youngsters on reparation
orders to do something positive for their local community.
FROGlife is a national charity based in Peterborough working to
protect reptiles and amphibians. It works alongside Peterborough
City Council’s Youth Offending Service and involves youngsters on
a number of wildlife initiatives.
This new project sees young people who have been given
community service build a range of nature products including
bird boxes to help protect the wildlife. All equipment, work
benches and workshop space has been provided by Cross Keys
Homes,Mears and Lovell.
Cross Keys Homes’ director of operations, Claire Higgins said:“The
workshop
sessions have
been designed to
help us work
with this group
of youngsters
and to help them
overcome the
factors which
have previously
led them to perpetrate anti-social behaviour. He added “We are
not expecting to stop anti-social behaviour overnight but we are
hoping to help these young people look to the future in a positive
way by helping them to enjoy the great outdoors, its wildlife and
all the other things it has to offer as well as at the same time
developing new skills.”
FROGlife’s reparation manager, Andy Mortimore, added:“The aim
is to help rehabilitate young people so that they can feel more
valued in the community.
“FROGlife will use the workshop kindly provided by Cross Keys,
Mears and Lovell to encourage these young people to produce a
range of nature related products. They will be distributed
throughout the
Peterborough area to
enhance conservation
areas.”
Like to knowmore then contact:
Louise Harding 01642 771300
louise_harding@cchousing.org.uk
Like to knowmore then contact:
Katie Savage 01733 385116
katie.savage@crosskeyshomes.co.uk
Member’s News
Hot topics debated
in the NorthWestIs crime out of control? Is the UK’s fear culture
exploited by the media? Are we responsible for
global warming or are we the victims of
propaganda? Could a healthy lifestyle ever be an
ethical prerequisite for entry to the social housing
system?
These were just some of the questions raised at the
NorthWest Communities Debate in November at
the City of Manchester Stadium.
The debate, hosted by broadcaster John Stapleton,
included a panel of key decision makers within the North
West, including :-
� Sir David Henshaw, Chairman of NHS NorthWest
� Jo Rogerson , Chief Inspector - Operations, Greater
Manchester Police,
� Michael Oglesby, Chairman of NorthWest Investment
Company MIDAS,
� Max Steinberg OBE, Chief Executive of Elevate East
Lancashire
� Harvest Housing Group’s Chief Executive Ian Perry.
The opinions of local
residents and other
agencies were also
heard, focusing on a
number of issues such
as crime, affordable
homes, provision for
the elderly and the environment and how the
combination of these factors impacts on our
communities.
Jo Rogerson opened up the debate with her take on
crime and actions that need to be taken, saying: “There is
evidence that crime is coming down however there is
still a lot more to do. People need to work together and
get involved in their local communities.”
Michael Oglesby said:“We need to look at total
situations.We can’t just look at one issue in isolation but
need to address the totality of the problem – the full
community.”
Multi-agency work is vitally important to the community
activity undertaken by Harvest Housing Group,who
organise the debate on an annual basis.
The panel addressed the need for a long-tern plan to
ensure sustainable communities for the future
generations and to secure the region’s economy.
Ian Perry said:“A robust long-term plan is needed but at
the moment no one is looking beyond the next five to
six years.”
Sir David Henshaw agreed by adding that the fortunes of
children need to be altered and that there is a serious
need for more interventions early on so as to prevent the
next generation of crime.
It was argued that a similar long-term focus is also
required in communities to retain the next generation of
home owners by addressing transport systems, the
housing offer made available and the provision of good
public services, so that these areas become more
sustainable with mixed communities of all income levels.
Discussion about the importance of a focus on the future
considered not only the need for a long-term vision from
the Government and other agencies but also the respon-
sibility that individuals need to take for their own
lifestyles and their impact on society’s resources.
Sir David Henshaw summed up the feeling succinctly:
“The way we’re living our lives today will impact on the
future.”
The comment was supported at an environmental level
by Max Steinberg OBE who said: “We’re living as if we
have two and a half globes, not just one.”
6
Member’s News
7
Music totheir ears
Two lucky youngsters won MP3 players in a poster
competition run by New Progress Housing Association.
Beth Barnard and Savannah Rae, both year 10 pupils at
Southlands High School, designed the winning poster
to warn people about the consequences of behaving
anti-socially.
Over the past year, pupils at the school have been
learning about criminal damage and anti-social
behaviour as part of their Citizenship studies at a
special series of workshops run by New Progress.
The workshops have been designed by the association's
Tenancy Enforcement Team in partnership with
teachers to help students understand the challenges
facing them once they leave home.They cover topics
such as budgeting, rent arrears, dealing with anti-social
behaviour, and living responsibly in the community.
The poster competition marked the end of the course
and the winning entry will now be framed and
displayed in the organisation's Head Office in Leyland.
Says Alison Morton,Tenancy Enforcement Manager,
who delivered the workshops “This has been a great
ending to a really productive year working with the
school.The workshops have been a fantastic success
and have generated a lot of national interest. It's great
to see the participants being rewarded for all their hard
work and we are extremely proud that we are able to
display the winning entry in our office.'
Chair of New Progress Tenants' Forum and Liverpool
Magistrate,Mr Frank McKenna JP, judged the winning
entry.
The course has proved so popular that it has been held
up as a national example of best practice and has
sparked a number of similar initiatives at schools across
the country. Like to knowmore then contact:
Nykkie Berry 01772 450852
Enthusiasm is an organisation that works with young
people with the aim to see them fulfil their true
potential. It has been established since 1992 and was
borne out of a need for young people within the
Allenton/Osmaston area of Derby.
They tackle anti-social behaviour and aim to reduce
crime. This is done by engaging with young people and
providing positive alternatives such as youth clubs,
education and one-to-one support.
Because of its positive working relationship with Derby
Community Safety Partnership, Derby Homes has further
funded additional projects, working particularly in
Alvaston/Boulton and Stockbrook/Morley Estate and
Mackworth.
Key to the success is working in partnership, in particular
with the Neighbourhood Teams where issues, problems
and concerns are identified, such as anti-social behaviour
and they are able to act and make a difference.
Pete Matthews Housing Manager has said “ “It has
worked for Morely,Mackworth team because we have
worked with one lad who has really be causing trouble
throughout the estate. We referred him to Enthusiasm,
they have worked with him and his family and this has
resulted in a total turnaround of his attitude and is
rubbing off on his friends, even the police have noticed
the difference in this individual and group of youngsters
that he associates
with.”
Providingpositive alternatives
To find out more
www.enthusiasm.org.uk.
Member’s News
8
Aspire’sRespect Event
In November, Aspire Housing demonstrated its
commitment to the Government’s ‘Respect’ Standard for
Housing Management.
Customers and representatives from partner organi-
sations attended a ‘Respect’ event at their offices to learn
more about the standard and the company’s pledge to
tackle anti-social behaviour.
The company’s approach is to identify the root causes of
anti-social behaviour and support individuals to modify
their actions. It is looking to embed a culture of respect
throughout all of the communities that it serves.
David Cockcroft, Director of Housing at EnCAMS - an
organisation responsible for environmental campaigns –
delivered the keynote speech. He talked about the
‘Respect’ agenda and the work that EnCAMS are involved
in to raise people’s quality of life and their planned
improvements to provide cleaner, safer and greener
communities.
David spoke about the importance of agencies working
in partnership to achieve excellence in local environ-
mental quality and to reduce anti-social behaviour.
Helen Scurr, Head of Housing Services at Aspire Housing,
said:“’Respect’ is an attitude that is shown towards any
individual’s feelings or interests and acknowledges
another’s feelings.”
She added: “We work pro-actively with other agencies
and empower our customers to take action against anti-
social behaviour to get where we want to be. We look at
prevention and early intervention as part of our delivery
plan, alongside support for both victims and witnesses.”
Aspire Housing helped to fund ‘Inspire’ youth club in
Cross Heath, which opened in June 2007.
Maxine Hopson, Neighbourhood Officer, for the area, has
already noticed a positive difference. She said:“We now
have around 20-30 young people that visit the club
every week.” Furthermore, we have already worked with
a young lady, along with the Youth Offending Service, to
help disengage her from future anti-social behaviour.”
The ‘Respect’ standard is about engaging central
government, local agencies, communities and every
individual to work together to build a society in which
we can respect
one another.
ASB satisfactionsurvey
– the results are in…All complainants of anti-social behaviour who had their
cases closed between August and October 2007 had
the opportunity to take part in Hammersmith and
Fulham Homes’ first ever anti-social behaviour
satisfaction survey.
Over 50% of the surveys were returned and high levels
of satisfaction with the ease of contacting officers to
make the initial complaint (78%) and support given
(62%).
They also scored very highly on being helpful,
courteous, sensitive, responsive and knowledgeable.
Satisfaction levels reduce when residents were asked:-
� how satisfied they were with the way their case was
dealt with (51%)
� how satisfied they were with the outcome of their
case (465).
In order to drive satisfaction levels up, further scrutiny is
being done to identify those who were not satisfied.
Specifically H&F Homes are trying to find out if there
are groups that are particularly unsatisfied, for example
by age, gender and ethnicity.
These groups will then be invited to focus groups to
discuss any particular barriers that they may be
experiencing so a
better service to all
can be provided.
Like to knowmore then contact:
01782 635 200enquiries@aspirehousing.co.uk
Like to knowmore then contact:
Kate Boulton 020 8753 4817
kate.boulton@hfhomes.org.uk
Member’s News
Neighbour from hellordered to leave
Law-abiding residents are celebrating as New Progress Housing
Association obtained a possession order against another
nuisance tenant who made neighbours' lives 'hell'.
The tenant caused misery for her neighbours in the Seven Stars
area of Leyland with frequent episodes of excessive noise,
threatening and abusive behaviour, and alcohol-fuelled violence.
The mother of two also allowed intoxicated youths and adults to
gather in and around her property and operated an 'open
house'.
Despite continued efforts by the association to work with her to
address her behaviour, the tenant refused to change her poor
behaviour.
Working with evidence provided by local residents and Leyland
Policing Team, the association was granted possession of her
home.
Community Beat Manager, John Penter said: 'We fully support
New Progress's actions against this tenant.We will continue to
work with them to prevent and tackle anti-social behaviour in
our communities.'
Says Bernie Keenan,Managing Director: 'We are committed to
tackling anti-social behaviour and will take whatever steps are
necessary to protect the rights of tenants to feel safe in their
communities.'
'We always offer support to any tenant who is at risk of losing
their tenancy to try and resolve the situation. However, when a
tenant refuses to address their behaviour and continues to
disrupt the quality of life for people in the surrounding area, we
will enforce their tenancy conditions.'
New Progress's Tenancy Enforcement Team self-represented at
the court hearing making this their 31st 'DIY' case. Self-
representation significantly reduces the legal costs of court
proceedings for both
the organisation, its
tenants, and the
defendant.
It’s lookingRosy
on Rose HillNew Charter’s Rose Hill estate was given a
wake up call by Dolores Lewis when she took
over as Neighbourhood Management Officer
late last year.
The estate had fallen foul to criminal damage,
anti-social behaviour and criminal activities
and was attracting some very undesirable
characters.
Dolores immediately had CCTV installed to
capture evidence of the criminal goings-on
and to act as a deterrent to those up to no
good. She also intervened in the normal
lettings process to ensure that void properties
went to those willing to respect the estate and
their neighbours and to those that were
willing to live within the terms of their tenancy
agreement.Those that continued to breach
the terms of their tenancy agreement were
evicted.
Properties were given new fencing and
residents set up a local HomeWatch Scheme.
Due to the generosity of the local District
Assembly and New Charter, the HomeWatch
Scheme was provided with packs full of useful
information.
The estate benefited from a multi-agency
approach by New Charter, Greater Manchester
Police, local Councillors, Tameside Patrollers,
Denton Town Manager, Andrew Gwynne
(Denton MP) and residents to make the estate
one where people want to live again.
A new Residents Forum has been established
and it will help carry on the good work. Cheri
Burns has now taken over from Dolores and
she will also be striving for more
improvements.
Now Rose Hill’s future really does look rosy
9
Like to knowmore then contact:
Nykkie Berry 01772 450852
nberry@progressgroup.org.uk
Members News
10
Eviction for
nuisance coupleResidents who suffered at the hands of nuisance
neighbours were celebrating after they helped evict
the anti-social couple from their home.
The 29 year old female and 32 year old male of
Willenhall, were given 28 days to leave their
property after a possession order was served at
Coventry County Court.
Whitefriars Housing Group secured the order after
the court found a breach of an injunction,made at
the same court in October, forbidding the male to
visit or reside at the property.
The injunction followed months of complaints from
residents about anti-social behaviour and noise
nuisance, including screaming and shouting.
The injunction and the order were obtained with
the help of witness statements from residents,
Whitefriars staff and the police.
This is the second eviction secured by asb4,
Whitefriars’ specialist anti-social behaviour team this
year. Gail Cooper, asb4 business manager, said:“We
are very pleased at the court’s decision.This sends
the clear message out to people acting anti-socially
that their behaviour is unfair, unacceptable and will
not be tolerated.”
“I would like to thank all residents and the police
who helped us secure this order.With their help we
have been able to resolve this matter, which
resulted in an eviction order.Whitefriars considers
taking eviction proceedings only as a last resort, but
on occasions where residents refuse to change their
behaviour we are left with no alternative.”
The team,which is employed byWhitefriars
Housing Group, offers a city-wide mediation service
and tackles serious cases of anti-social behaviour.
asb4 is the only ‘one-stop shop’ for anti-social
behaviour services and remedies in the area. It
offers a full menu of resolution services ranging
from mediation through to emergency injunctions
and committal proceedings. Its aim is to allow
residents to enjoy their homes in peace.
Demotion isthe order ofthe day
Wales &West Housing Association has obtained its first
Demotion Order using the skills of in-house staff.
A demotion order means a tenancy is demoted to a
probationary tenancy for 12 months.
The staff obtained the Order at Cardiff County Court against
a tenant who had caused excessive and prolonged anti-
social behaviour to her neighbours by playing loud
amplified music and allowing her visitors to regularly
threaten and harass her neighbours, causing them distress
and alarm. Any further breaches of her tenancy within 12
months could result in eviction.
The association demonstrated to the Court the devastating
effect that the anti-social behaviour had upon neighbours
and the wider community.
Environmental Health Officers also assisted the association
by providing witness statements and seizing hi-fi equipment
from the property.
Residents were called upon to provide the required
evidence. For those who were too afraid to attend court,
staff acted as professional witnesses and presented hearsay
evidence on their behalf.
The tenant defended the action, relying upon the Disability
Discrimination Act, in particular linking her need to lose
herself in her music as a form of self medication. Whilst the
Court was sympathetic to the needs of the tenant, it
weighed up the effect this behaviour had upon neighbours
when considering the issue of reasonableness.
Wales &West Head of Housing, Lynnette Glover, said “The
association is delighted with the outcome of this case and it
has demonstrated that we are prepared to use all the tools
available to us to tackle anti-social behaviour.This will
ensure our residents do not suffer the effects of ASB”.
The association has, to date, taken over 20 possession cases
to Court without instructing
Counsel and have achieved
a 100% success rate.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Sharon Lee, Head of Support
Services on 0800 052 2526
News ...
11
Clean-up a successA clean up in Cotmanhay, Derbyshire was hailed a
success by all involved after more than 30 staff and
volunteers worked together with residents to tidy up the
area.
While estates were being tidied by the Young Rangers
and the Probation Services, staff from Three Valleys
Housing knocked on more than three hundred doors,
inspecting gardens and offering advice to residents
about how they could arrange for unwanted items to be
taken away.
Sixteen skips full of rubbish and bulky items were taken
away and a further 50 follow up visits were planned to
take away further items of household waste.
Housing Operations Manager for Three Valleys Housing,
Alf McLean, said:
“We have had a
very successful day
and we hope that
residents are proud
of what we have
achieved together.
We will be working
with local people
and Erewash
Borough Council to look at some of the issues that have
come out of the day and look at how we can maintain
this standard in the future.”
Like to knowmore then contact:
Phil Campbell, 0844 770 3500
phil.campbell@threevalleyshousing.com
DDA trainingtakes off !
SLCNG members are finding that a new series of training
events are really hitting the spot.
It was felt that more needed to be done to alert
members about the responsibilities that they have
following the introduction of the Disability
Discrimination Act.
Many provisions of the Act came into force in December
2006 and a report by Sheffield Hallam University in
August 2007 highlighted the desperate need for social
landlords to consider the effects that anti-social
behaviour was having on disabled people.
Given the higher rates of disability among tenants of
social landlords there is a need for those organisations in
a position of influence, such as SLCNG, to use their
position to help social landlords develop more sensitive
polices and procedures.
Sharon Mackley, SLCNG Operations Manager said,“ We
knew from earlier reports from the National Audit Office
and the British Institute for Brian Injured Children that
there were concerns that social landlords might not be
dealing sensitively with anti-social behaviour that
affected people with disabilities or was caused by them.
We decided that SLCNG ought to take the lead with our
members and organise some training”
SLCNG worked with our partner organisation,
Whiteheads Solicitors, to run a series of workshops.The
first two workshops were run in October and November
2007,with a further five planned for early 2008. In
addition, tailored in-house courses have been arranged
for five member organisations.
“The demand has been amazing and the feedback is very
encouraging”, said Sharon,“it confirms our view that
SLCNG is in an ideal position to provide timely training
for its members which gives genuine value for money.”
For more information about the courses, contact Sharon
Mackley on 0247623 1749 or Sharon@slcng.org.uk
Peter Jackson, Managing Director.
ocial LandlordsCrime and Nuisance Group
Feature
12
SHAARP is the Southern Housing
Associations Antisocial Behaviour
Response Partnership.
SHAARP is funded by 14
registered social landlords in
Hampshire, Dorset andWest
Sussex covering over 50,000
properties in these areas. It
reports to a board of partnering
RSL’s and resident represen-
tatives.
Over the past two years it has
also established successful
partner relations with the Police,
Youth Offending Services and
ASB co-ordinators across several
Community Safety Partnerships.
SHAARP members include:
A2Winchester
Atlantic Housing
Hermitage HA
Home Havant
Hyde HA
Kingfisher HA
Knightstone HA
Martlet Homes Ltd
Pavilion HA
Portsmouth HA
Raglan HA
Swaythling HS
Twynham HA
Western Challenge HA
If you would like yourorganisation featured inNuisance News, pleasecontact Sharon Mackley,
Tel: 024 7623 1748
Email :sharon@slcng.org.uk
Stamping out ASBSHAARP successfully reclaimed possession of a property in Emsworth
following persistent anti-social behaviour by a 42 year-old woman.
The tenant who has a heavy alcohol dependency, had made neighbours lives
a misery over the course of three years with anti-social behaviour including
noise nuisance, arguments, shouting and littering.
Local residents suffering at the hands of included a neighbouring elderly
couple and young family whose mother has a terminal illness.The tenant also
has a 13 year-old son who is now living with relatives after intervention by
social services.
SHAARP worked in partnership with Hermitage Housing Association, who own
the property, and within seven days, they were successful in being granted
possession at Portsmouth County Court.
Six witnesses were involved in this case, working alongside SHAARP to
compile evidence and bring a successful case. Speaking after the court case
one witness said she/he wanted to cry with relief.
SHAARP Anti Social Behaviour Officer, Charlotte Cooper, commented:“The
local residents worked together to put a stop to this persistent anti-social
behaviour.”
She continued:“We are delighted to have finally resolved this case.The local
people put their trust in SHAARP and we are proud to have delivered a result
which will allow them to go back to living their every day lives in peace.”
Crack houseclosures
Police have officially closed houses in Fleet and Southampton after Crack
House Closure Orders was granted by magistrates under the Anti-Social
Behaviour Act 2003.
The order means that no-one can enter the properties for three months, and
during this time, it is a criminal offence for anyone to enter the flat unless
authorised by police.
A police spokesman said:“Drug-related anti-social behaviour will not be
tolerated by the police and the local community and we are committed to
making the area a safer and more pleasant place to live.
“The supply of drugs affects the quality of life for everyone, particularly those
living close by to where the activity takes place.
“If you witness any drug-related anti-social behaviour, please contact the
police.”
SHAARP has worked in partnership with the police on these cases and are
delighted there is now a positive end to this matter.
Feature
13
On behalf of the
Kent & Medway
Social Landlords
ASB Group, Nic
Haig (Hyde
Housing
Association’s ASB
Co-ordinator) and
Anne Chapman (Maidstone Housing Trust) presented the
Social Landlords category for the county’s Respect
Young Peoples award 2007.
More than 100 youngsters were honoured across six
categories. Among the winners were young people who
had combated racism and bullying, a group of teenagers
who had organised events to raise awareness of the
tragedy of domestic abuse and others who had worked
hard to build bridges between young people and their
communities.
The awards were open to young people aged between
10-20 years old and are backed by the Home Office and
supported by Kent Police Authority and Charlton
Athletic Football Club's Community Scheme
The winners for the Kent & Medway Social Landlords ASB
Group category went to Christopher Powell, Bradley
Powell, Laura Amer, who devoted their spare time to
setting up and running the Bysingwood Youth Club at
Faversham and the Highly Commended certificate to
Jack Devine of the Shepway Youth Forum (pictured
above).
Helping tostamp out ASB
A resident of Atlantic Housing was sentenced to 14
days imprisonment after twice breaching an anti-social
behaviour injunction obtained by his landlords and
SHAARP.
The case was originally referred to SHAARP in
November 2006 after complaints that the resident had
verbally abused his housing officer. Fellow residents of
the building also confirmed they had experienced
similar problems with the resident.
An Anti-Social Behaviour Injunction was granted in
February, 2007 which included power of arrest and
exclusion from the surrounding area for a period of two
years. The resident then breached the ASBI on two
separate occasions, firstly threatening a witness when
collecting some belongings from the property, for
which he received a suspended sentence of 14 days
imprisonment.
On the second occasion he threatened to murder his
housing officer, who was attempting to deal with a
possession order on the property.
SHAARP Anti-Social Behaviour Officer Charlotte Cooper
commented:“We are delighted to have a successful
outcome in this case and resolve matters for both the
housing staff and neighbours who suffered as a result
of this unacceptable behaviour.”
13 year old’sevidence
SHAARP successfully obtained a Possession Order for a
Hyde Housing Association property in Sholing.
The judge granted the order after hearing the
compelling evidence of a SHAARP officer Charlotte
Cooper and a 13 year-old resident.
The case was originally referred to SHAARP in May 2005
after incidents of racial abuse a man towards other
residents. An Anti-Social Behaviour Injunction was
obtained against the man in June 2005 who was living
at the property in with his girlfriend, a Hyde resident.
In January 2006 he pleaded guilty to using racially
aggravated threatening and abusive words and his
partner was served a Notice Seeking Possession on the
property.
In September 2006 SHAARP were also granted a
Postponed Possession Order making the resident aware
that if her partner’s behaviour continued she would be
facing eviction. Two further incidents occurred in
September and November 2006 when the man was
arrested twice for using racially aggravated threatening
and abusive words and then bailed.
In May 2007 SHAARP were granted a Possession Order
for the property following evidence from their Anti-
Social Behaviour Officer Charlotte and a 13-year old
resident whose evidence was fundamental to the case.
Member’s News
14
Like to knowmore then contact:
01527 534007 or 64252
www.redditchbc.gov.uk
Woman jailedfor second
time for breachingASBOA Redditch woman,who has featured twice
before in Nuisance News, has been given a
further custodial sentence for breaching
the terms of an Anti-Social Behaviour Order
The 34 year old, formerly of Winyates, was
given a four-month jail sentence by
Worcester Crown Court at the end of
November.
A two-year Criminal Anti-Social Behaviour
Order was also imposed,which will take
effect on her release from prison. She was
also sentenced to 225 days in prison by
Redditch Magistrates in September 2007
for breaching the ASBO.
The ASBO had been granted in September
2005 following complaints from
neighbours that she had been playing loud
music, shouting, swearing, spitting and
throwing things over her balcony.
Although the ASBO initially had the desired
effect, six months later complaints about
her behaviour began to come in again.
Despite intervention by Redditch Borough
Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour Team, the
level of complaints escalated.
Liz Bellaby, Anti-Social Behaviour Manager
at Redditch Borough Council, said:“This
case demonstrates that, in partnership with
West Mercia Constabulary, we will continue
to rigorously tackle anti-social behaviour,
protecting individuals and improving the
quality of life within communities.
Over £50,000 forRespect our Communityschemes
As a result of signing up to the Respect Standard, First Choice Homes
Oldham’s newly formed Better Neighbourhoods Team is working
hard to deliver new
initiatives that will
help improve the
estates of Oldham.
One of these
schemes is the
“Respect Our
Community Awards”.
The awards have
been designed to
give tenants and residents a chance to improve their neighbourhood
by generating ideas from within the community that will help them
resolve problems where they live.
First Choice Homes Oldham has invested £30,000 into the scheme
and local organisations have contributed a further £22,000 in cash
and a wealth of resources.
The Respect Our Community Awards Coordinator, Jayne
Winterbottom said,“It is vital that tenants and residents on our
estates take ownership of the problems they face, who better to say
what the possible solutions are than the very people that live within
these neighbourhoods? We now have a ‘resource bank’ to help
people realise their ideas, historically all our efforts have been
focused on punitive measures.”
The applications are scrutinised by a panel made up of
representatives from organisations that have contributed to the
scheme.These include Bullock, Connaught, Housing 21, NCHA,
Keyring as well as many others.
Projects can be funded up to the value of £5,000. Once a project has
been approved a support plan is devised so that the applicant gets
as much assistance as they need.
First Choice Homes Oldham is committed to building confident
communities that pull together to resolve problems that affect them.
Increasing tenant and resident involvement to raise community spirit
by encouraging them to get involved can only be a good thing.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Better Neighbourhoods Team 0161 770 4588
Member’s News
Out ofhours
operations prove awinnerIt is good news for Leyland as new figures
released by New Progress Housing
Association indicate a reduction in
incidents of anti-behaviour in the town.
The organisation's Tenancy Enforcement
Team is celebrating after data collated by
the association and the local Police show
that 'out of hours' working is paying off in
their bid to deter anti-social behaviour.
Working with the local Police, the team
undertook out of hours operations in the
weeks leading up to Halloween and Bonfire
night in areas around Leyland, Bamber
Bridge and Penwortham that tended to
attract anti-social behaviour after dark.
The prevention work, which included letters
to tenants reminding them of their tenancy
conditions and high presence night patrols,
led to an overall 40% reduction in criminal
damage and 18% reduction in anti-social
behaviour compared to the same period
last year.
Linda Alcock, Head of Tenancy Enforcement
said : “The reduction is fantastic news for
the team, our partners and above all, the
local community.We are always looking to
new ways to prevent anti-social behaviour
and this is another example of how working
together really works.'
“We are looking forward to working with
our partners to see the results of a similar
initiative over the Christmas period.”
15
Like to knowmore then contact:
Nykkie Berry 01772 450852nberry@progressgroup.org.uk
Indefinite anti-socialbehaviour injunction
awardedAn anti-social behaviour Injunction was granted at Redditch
County Court in December 2007 on a Redditch woman
following complaints by a number of neighbours about the
behaviour of her children.
The majority of complaints related to shouting, swearing,
deliberately targeting properties when playing ball games,
damage to property and throwing stones at neighbouring
properties.
The Anti-Social Behaviour Team endeavoured to work with the
women and her children but complaints continued. It was felt
that formal action was required to allow the community respite
from the continued anti-social behaviour.
The terms of the injunction mean that the woman and her
children or visitors will not be allowed to swear or shout, verbally
abuse, threaten, harass or intimidate people, play ball games in
the close where they live, cause damage to property or throw
stones or other objects at properties.
In addition she is not to allow her garden to remain in an untidy
condition.
Councillor Bill Hartnett, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety,
said: “The Council regrettably accepts that anti-social behaviour
occurs but when it does and sufficient evidence of ongoing anti-
social behaviour is received, the Council will take steps to stop
the activity which may result in court action such as this
injunction.“
When granting the indefinite order the judge noted that there
had been a ‘long attempt on the part of the Council to deal with
the situation’ and he was mindful to grant the order. In addition
the judge thanked the residents for attending court.
Liz Bellaby, Anti-Social Behaviour Manager at Redditch Borough
Council said: “Redditch Borough Council will continue to use the
tools and powers available to deal with perpetrators of anti-
social behaviour.This injunction was obtained to stop the
behaviour that has been
having a negative impact
on the lives of residents in
the area.”.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Tel: (01527) 534007
www.redditchbc.gov.uk
Member’s News
16
Community
Lettings
transforms estateNew Charter’s lettings team took a different
approach to letting homes in one of its
Stalybridge neighbourhoods. Anti social
behaviour in the area meant many tenants had
become complacent and were not prepared to
tackle trouble.
The team decided to bring in seven new families
- all at the same time - to fill the voids on the estate.
On one Saturday, they held an an open day and invited all the prospective tenants to view their homes and meet
their new neighbours.The new tenants forged friendships even before they had moved in.
The open day was a great success and the new tenants really have injected a new lease of life into the estate.
� A new tenants’ group has been formed and it is working hard to make further changes to the estate and build
community spirit.
� CCTV has been installed to make residents feel safer.
� The local Tameside Sports Trust has organised youth activities.
� The once run down shop on the estate has been renovated and is now used regularly by the Neighbourhood
Management Officer to hold surgeries, Tenant Participation for meetings and events, and by Tameside
patrollers as a drop-in centre.The shop has also hosted a Halloween party for the children and was turned into
Santa’s grotto for Christmas.
The process was so successful it will be used again when more homes become available to let.
In June 2007, Southampton City Council teamed
together with the Police, Fire and Rescue Service and
Tony Moto MX Parks to run a pilot scheme for 14-17 year
olds.
The a programme included
� Health & Safety
� Anti-social behaviour
� Care for the environment
� Basic mechanics
� Vehicle law
� Motorcycle rider training
� Peer mentoring
� Employment opportunities
� Parental involvement
At a glance
� 13 young people were selected and 11 completed the
course
� All 11 either completed their Youth Achievement �
Awards during or soon after the course
� None of the young people offended whilst on the
project.
� Some of the young people may return to Tony Moto
Parks to train as marshals.
Off Road motorcycleprojectOff Road motorcycleproject
Member’s News
17
A second year of Respectin GatesheadDuring 2007 Safer Gateshead were involved in :-
� The completion of Safer Gateshead’s Respect Action
Plan.
� Gateshead Housing Company signed up to the
Respect Housing Management Standards, completed
a thorough review with its members who scrutinised
how anti-social behaviour is tackled in Gateshead and
areas for development.
� The production of an easy-to-use guide for all practi-
tioner agencies called “The Graded Response to ASB”
which was commended in the national Crown
Prosecution Service Newsletter.
� The launch of its
own Respect
Awards to
members of the
community who
had tackled anti-
social behaviour
effectively.
� The launch of its Anti-Social Behaviour Motorbiking
Strategy, with advice leaflets distributed to every
school in the borough.
� Setting up its own Family Intervention Project.
� Becoming a national pilot area for selective licensing
for private landlords
� Setting up a mediation service in Gateshead in
partnership with UNITE
� Receiving an award from the North East Youth Justice
Assembly for the DVD it produced for Gateshead
schools on ASB.
This year their priorities are to:-
� Develop better coordinated interventions at an earlier
stage to tackle ASB and linking this more effectively
to positive diversionary activities in line with the
anticipated Youth Taskforce Action Plan
� Link parenting work to tackling young people ASB
more effectively in a ‘family package’
� Expand the number of initiatives around community
payback and restorative justice work
Witnessesencouraged to
take a stand against ASBNewham Council and partner agencies have launched
an innovative charter designed to offer support to
people who are prepared to stand up in court against
crime and anti-social behaviour.
The NewhamWitness Charter sets out the minimum
standards of service people can expect from the
council, police and 23 partner agencies including most
of the housing associations with property in the
borough
Councillor Ian Corbett, said: "Neither the council, other
enforcement agencies nor residents can tackle anti-
social behaviour in isolation. It is only by working
together that we can make a difference.
"The willingness of witnesses to give evidence is vital in
detecting and prosecuting offenders, as well as
securing justice for the innocent.While the needs of
victims receive attention, witnesses do not get the
information or support they need.We all have to
provide the same level of service that gives people
confidence about taking a stand."
The charter includes a witness pack containing useful
contact numbers for reporting incidents, report logs
that allow people to record incidents and a guide that
explains court proceedings, what takes place, how you
can prepare and what happens afterwards.
Added Councillor Corbett: "Giving evidence in court is a
big step and one which takes courage.Those who do
deserve the best support we can give in the run up to
and after the court hearing, including protection
measures where required.They will receive advice,
reassurance, consideration for the inconvenience they
experience and our thanks."
So far 11 people have volunteered to share their
experiences and knowledge to support others and an
induction package to assist those volunteers is being
developed.
The witness charter and the Newham approach to
witness support has already attracted interest from the
Government who are keeping check to see if the model
could be adopted nation-wide.
Members News
18
Chemicallaboratory in flat
Thanks to police intelligence, Colchester Borough
Homes carried out a joint raid on a top floor flat
where it was believed dangerous chemicals were
being used and stored.
The raid also involved environmental health
officers, police, fire and a specialist drug and
chemical substance consultant.The tenant was
arrested and taken into custody for questioning.
The tenant had set up the chemical laboratory to
try to invent a new cleaning product. Although
the chemicals were, if mixed together extremely
dangerous, there was no evidence that any illegal
substances or bombs were being constructed and
the tenant was released from custody.
Colchester Borough Homes made an application
to the high court for an emergency interim
injunction to stop the tenant returning to the
property until a specialist company could remove
the large stock of extremely dangerous chemicals.
The injunction was awarded the same day and
served on the tenant at the police station.
With his solicitor, the tenant undertook not to
store any chemicals other than those used for
normal household cleaning, to pay £5.00 per
week to cover the cost of removing the chemicals
and to allow the housing officer to inspect the
property without prior appointment four times a
year.The Judge asked the Housing Manager and
the Council Solicitor to remain behind after the
hearing and made the following comments “You
acted very quickly and responsibly in making the
property and the other resident’s safe, in this very
unusual and dangerous case, well done”
The tenant is now working with Colchester
Borough Homes and with support his behaviour
is much improved.The interim injunction was
vital in securing a positive outcome in this case,
and with support from the housing team, the
tenant has sustained his tenancy and improved
his behaviour.
Co-operativeapproach with
elderly arsonistA co-operative approach in a complex case has seen South
Somerset Homes recover possession from a 70 year old repeat
arsonist who posed a significant risk to himself and to his
elderly neighbours.The tenant was successfully re-housed in
secure accommodation ensuring he is now able to receive the
specialist care he requires.
The tenant’s house, near Yeovil, had been deliberately set on
fire on three separate occasions resulting in him having to be
rescued from the building. His bedridden next door
neighbour also had to be evacuated for her own safety.The
tenant had also threatened several of his neighbours and had
allowed the premises to fall into an uninhabitable condition.
Following the third fire the tenant was sectioned to allow his
mental health condition to be properly assessed. However,
South Somerset Homes were informed that despite concerns
about the tenant’s ability to look after himself, he could be
released from hospital within days.They decided to apply for
an emergency interim injunction and exclusion order to
protect the tenant’s neighbours and also made submissions to
the Mental Health Review Tribunal explaining why general
accommodation was not suitable for the tenant’s needs.
Following submissions the Court granted an emergency
Injunction the day before the Mental Health Review Tribunal
hearing. Partially due to the presence of this Injunction and
the submissions, the Tribunal decided that the tenant was not
sufficiently well to be able to return to his home.
A notice seeking possession of the property was issued at the
end of July 2007.The tenant’s mental health issues meant that
he had to be represented by Shelter on behalf of the Official
Solicitor.
By adopting co-operative approach the best outcome was
obtained to protect both the tenant, his neighbours, the
property and staff.
It resulted in the association recovering possession with the
consent of the other parties and the tenant has now been
permanently housed in secure accommodation where he is
able to receive the specialist care that he needs.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Barbara Colby 01935 404641
Member’s News
Turning peoples’lives around
Hostel residents of South Essex Homes, Louise Jowett, 24
and MatthewWhitehair 28, have shared their experiences
and feelings about how the new tenancy sustainment
course has turned their lives around. The four week
tailored course has been introduced by the South Essex
Homes Hostel Team with Southend Adult Community
College to address the underlying problems that cause
residents to become homeless in the first instance.
Matthew and Louise, who are also expecting a baby next
summer, attended the course whilst staying in one of
South Essex Homes hostels where they have been for
two months, whilst currently awaiting to move into
permanent accommodation.
Matthew said “At first I thought the course was not for
me and I was very resistant as I didn’t think it was
anything new, but after only two days I wanted to go
back and felt I was really getting something out of
attending. I left school at 14, with little education and for
the first time recently, I felt really proud when completing
a job application form and I could include the qualifi-
cations I have achieved. I recently completed a City &
Guilds course as a result of attending the tenancy
sustainment course and it has really opened my eyes to
what education and other opportunities are on offer. It
has given me the extra added incentive to go out there
and make a difference to mine and my family’s lives.
I have been asked to go and speak to other young
people who are starting the course and share my
positive experiences with them. I have been through
hard times like others and I want to share what has been
the best opportunity given to me in a long time.“
He added “We would really like to say thank all those
involved for all their help completing the course and
encouraging me to attend. It really has turned our lives
around and we can make a new start for our new baby”.
Louise added;“The course opened other avenues for me
and I am looking into starting volunteer work which will
hopefully lead to other paid employment. We will both
be looking into doing further courses, especially one that
will develop our CV’s. I think every single person that
attended the course walked away with something
positive - those that may have had a low incentive to do
anything and showed resistance have changed.“
18
Camera tacklesgraffiti
Thanks to video surveillance equipment in an empty
flat the block in Sheffield, four youths were identified
daubing graffiti and causing criminal damage. The
evidence was shared with South Yorkshire Police, and as
a result the four were arrested. Two were charged with
Criminal Damage and fined through Court, and the
others received a final warning and a caution.
The youths were referred to Youth Offending Team
Services and were issued with direct reparation orders.
This means they will have to put right what they have
done wrong in the community. At the start of
February, they painted,
removed graffiti and
cleaned the block on
Dyche Lane.
Before the camera was
installed, the walls of the
communal area were
painted and within a few days the graffiti started to
reappear. Prior to this, NeighbourhoodWardens and
Estate Officers had reported groups of youths, graffiti
and litter. Each resident of the block was visited,
however no one
was willing to act
as a witnesses.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Lynsey Stephenson 01702 236112
Like to knowmore then contact:
Kerri Smith 0114 2053333
kerri.smith@sheffieldhomes.org.uk
Member’s News
20
Child Safety Orders- hit or miss
This article relates the experience of the City & County
of Swansea Council in obtaining a Child Safety Order
against a family with a nine year old child who was
perpetrating extreme anti-social behaviour.
Child Safety Order
Under Section 11 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998,
the Magistrates Court may make a Child Safety Order
(CSO) in respect to a child under the age of 10 on the
application of a Local Authority, if it is satisfied that one
or more of the conditions set out are met. The aim of
the CSO is to place the child for a specified period not
exceeding 12 months under the supervision of a
responsible officer and requires the child to comply
with such requirements that are specified.
Before making a CSO, a Magistrates Court must obtain
and consider information about the child’s family
circumstances and the likely effect of the order on
those circumstances.
The Court must explain to the parent or guardian of the
child in ordinary language the effect of the order and
the requirements proposed to be included in it.
The consequence if the child fails to comply with any
such requirement is that the Court has power to review
the order on the application of either the parent or
guardian or responsible officer.
When the Act was passed, a breach of the CSO would
make it possible for a Care Order under Section 31(1)(a)
of the Children Act 1989 to be made. The other breach
provision was in respect of simply varying the order.
However, in March 2005 s12 (6) of the 1998 Act was
repealed and any real enforcement mechanism for a
CSO was removed. The remedy for a breach of the
supporting Parent Order remains a fine.
The proceedings in respect of a CSO are Family
Proceedings and the standard proof is a civil standard.
Previously untried procedure
This seemingly previously untried procedure appeared
to the City and County of Swansea to be the only way
to deal with a nine year old, whose single parent
seemed unable or unwilling to control his behaviour
which was causing serious anti-social behaviour
problems on an estate where the majority of the
residents were Council tenants.This family in fact were
living in privately rented accommodation.
The Social Services Department were not seeking a
Care Order so it fell to the Housing Department to take
the initiative to try and provide relief for residents from
behaviour which included verbal and physical abuse
and criminal damage.
CSO and Parenting Orders obtained
The action was commenced in November 2006 and the
initial interim CSO and Parenting Orders were obtained
in March 2007, but only after the District Judge (DJ),
ordered a Guardian for the child , a s37 report (CA 1989)
from Social Services and a report from an Educational
Psychologist.
The evidence to support the application was not
contested and there was never any legal challenge as to
whether the required criteria had been met in order to
allow the Court to make the order. Even so the
procedure seemed to generate a lot of work and the
process seemed to take forever. Of major significance
was justifying the cost in the face of opposition from
the Guardian and the DJ, both of whom favoured a Care
Order. It was, however, the only procedure that seemed
to offer a remedy to the particular problem and
address both the needs of the child and that of the
community especially with a mother who said “yes”but
did no.
Eventually in August 2007 a final CSO for 6 months was
obtained, only a month away from the child’s 10th
birthday.
Now he is 10 there is little doubt this child will soon be
back before the court, be it for an ASBO or on criminal
charges.
Would we do it all again?
In summary, the repeal of Section 12 s.s. (6) is a real
problem - would we do it all again? - Probably not.
Lyndsay Thomas Senior Lawyer
City & County of Swansea Council
Tel: 01792 636194 Fax: 01792 637477
Member’s News
21
From ASBI to ASBOA resident from theWigan area has been sentenced to
five months in prison for breaching an ASB Injunction.
Additionally, he was made the subject of an ASBO.
Wigan and Leigh Housing obtained the injunction after
taking action against a tenant for noise nuisance and
general rowdiness. This prompted the tenant’s partner to
threaten the main witness and damage her property. On
hearing this and collating the appropriate evidence an
ASBI was sought o protect the witnesses. An ASBI was
granted for a period of 12 months with the power of
arrest and an exclusion zone attached.
The defendant then went on to breach the order on four
occasions by both being within the exclusion zone and
more seriously by smashing the witness’s kitchen
window and then by threatening another resident.
He was arrested in December 2007 and the case was
transferred to Liverpool County Court. Due to the
greater sentencing options available in the criminal
courts, the fact that the defendant was already in the
criminal system before the initial ASBI, the association
sought to attach an application for an ASBO on to the
committal proceedings.
This application was heard at the same hearing as the
committal proceedings and the defendant was
sentenced for the breaches of the Injunction, and
granted the application for the ASBO in similar terms to
the ASBI for 2 years. The ASBO now excludes the
defendant from entering Ashton in Makerfield where he
was living before
the action was
taken.
All help refusedAnthony Collins Solicitors acted for the Vale Housing
Association on an injunction against a defendant who was
engaging in anti-social behaviour. This included him shouting
at cars and pedestrians. He was heavily dependent upon
alcohol, his behaviour was scaring to children and he had
been aggressive towards a neighbour.
The injunction claim was heard and the defendant did not
attend. The Judge agreed to make an Injunction Order for
two months with a return date a few days later to allow the
defendant to seek legal advice. He directed that the claimant
make all possible attempts to arrange for the defendant to
attend and for Social Services to attend with him. Social
Services were not prepared to be involved as he had refused
support previously. At the hearing the defendant was not
legally represented and an Injunction was made to last until
July 2008 together with a Power of Arrest (on the non-violence
clause). The Judge also made a costs order against him not to
be enforced without a consideration of the defendant’s
financial means.
Vale Housing went to great lengths to ensure that all avenues
of support were pursued but the defendant had refused them
all. Therefore the Judge found that it was reasonable to make
an Injunction Order.
Order variedAnthony Collins Solicitors represented Oxford
Citizens HA against a tenant who had been made
subject to a order for possession in November 2006.
An application was made to vary the suspended
possession order to an outright order due to anti-
social behaviour. This behaviour had largely ceased
by the hearing but it was found that that housing
benefit had been stopped due to fraudulently
claims. In addition there was arrears of £3,500 with
no prospect of them being reduced.
Representations were made that the order should
be varied for the following reasons:-
� The Anti-Social Behaviour;
� Repayment of the arrears would be unrealistic as
they would have to be at a minimum of £10 per
week to be paid off within 6 years.
� The evidence suggested that the Defendant was
not living at the Property.
The Judge ruled that the suspended possession
order be varied to an outright order and that the
defendant pay the claimant’s costs. He considered
that it was not within the defendants ability to be
able to repay the amount owed and noted he had
not attended the hearing to put forward any
defence to the allegations of anti-social behaviour.
Like to knowmore then contact:
Kev Ashcroft 01942 486845
Kevin.Ashcroft@walh.co.uk
Like to knowmore then contact:
Jane Plant 0121-212-7455
22
Make sure that you shareyour news with usThis is your newsletter and why not ensure that you
share your news on how your organisation is handling
many of the complex issues of anti-social behaviour.
Why not tell us about your new innovations, your
success stories, feedback from your communities - just
to name a few.
What we need is:-
� Articles, ideally around 200 to 300 words in length
� High quality copy of your logo (If you are not sure or
speak to the person who handles your publicity)
� Photographs, where applicable, that support your
articles. Any photographs need to be high quality to
ensure they can be reproduced.
� You contact details if you would like other members
to be able to contact you for more details.
Next Issue & Deadline
The next issue will be distributed by the 1st June.
The deadline for all articles is 20th March - items
received after this date are unlikely to be included.
Due to space restrictions, articles received early will take
priority. Please email articles, logos and photographs
to:-
sharon@slcng.org.uk
The information, opinions and conclusions expressed in Nuisance News are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group Ltd
Editorialservices,designandartworkbyGlennMarketing01215557319
Dates for your diaries.....
Regional MeetingsMidlands
Wednesday 9th April 2008 –Wrekin
Housing Trust
Tuesday 22nd July 2008 – Nuneaton &
Bedworth BC
Wednesday 22nd October 2008 –
Charnwood BC – To be confirmed.
SouthWest / SouthWales
Thursday 10th April 2008 - Teign Housing
Newton Abbott
Wednesday 9th July 2008 - Venue to be
confirmed
Wednesday 5th November 2008 - Venue
to be confirmed
Southern – London
Wednesday 16th April 2008 – Friends
Meeting House – Euston Road
Wednesday 2nd July 2008 – Friends
Meeting House – Euston Road
Wednesday 1st October 2008 – Friends
Meeting House – Euston Road
NorthWest / NorthWales
Wednesday 23rd April 2008 – Calico
Housing,Bury
Wednesday 16th July 2008 – Northern
Counties HA
Wednesday 15th October 2008 – Helena
Housing
Getting your stories in
nuisance newsThe majority of the news and information in
Nuisance News comes from our members. We
receive more articles than we have room to
publish and some members have asked why their
stories were not included or were sub-edited.
Little or changes
The large proportion of the news that we
receive is well written and follows the
traditional press release approach. The whole
story is to summarised it in the first two sentences with the
most important parts stressed. In just a paragraph, it answers who,
what, when,where, why and how.
Then, the news story is developed within the following paragraphs
and tends to be around 250 to 300 words Many are accompanied by
a well constructed and taken photograph
The others
In contrast, we receive news items that give headaches both to us and
our editorial designers. Some either give a chronological date order of
what happened when or fail to give the key facts to the story.
Why not ask for help?
Many of our members have press or public relations officers who can
help to bring a story alive.
If you do not have access to specialist help, then take a look at you
daily or evening newspaper and see how a complex story in written in
an easy to read and understandable style.
nuisance newsThe quarterly newsletter of the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group
Issue 44 Dec 2007
This issue includes articles fromthe following:-Boston MayflowerBowlee Park HousingBromford HG
CalicoCambridge CouncilChelmer Housing Partnership
Colchester Borough HomesCross Keys HomesDepartment for Children, Schoolsand FamiliesENCAMS
Erimus HousingGentoo SunderlandHarvest HGHome Office
Homes for IslingtonHammersmith & Fulham HomesLeasowe Community Homes
Leeds Federated HALocal Government AssociationMansfield DC
Maritime HANew Progress HANottingham Community Housing
Partington HAPoplar HARCARedditch BCSheffield HomesSolihull Community Housing
South Essex HomesSouth Liverpool HousingSovereign HAStockport HomesThree Valleys HousingWhiteheads SolicitorsWillow Part Housing Trust
This issue
ocial LandlordsCrime and Nuisance Group
New partnership withmajor software companyGreat news for all ourmembers, we haveanother partner onboard, ElectronicBusiness Systems Ltd(EBS).
EBS is a majorsoftware companythat developed
ReACT, the awardwinning dedicatedanti social behaviourrecording,monitoring and case management database used by many of our members.
We have worked with EBS for a number of years and the new partnership will
ensure the continuing development of the ReACT software. We will provide
expert advice and guidance on the latest developments in ASB. This will
benefit both existing and potential users by ensuring accurate compilation of
the data requirements of the Performance Improvement Toolkit for the
Respect Standard for Housing Management.EBS will provide the latest news for Nuisance News and give advice on
software developments. It will also actively sponsor our Group to its existing
clients at exhibitions and conferences where we do not have a major
presence.The agreement was signed at the National Housing Federation Annual
Conference and Exhibition held at the ICC in Birmingham.
If you would like to know more about ReACT, then please see the
advertisement on the back page or visit www.e-b-s.co.uk
Pictured are Roger Griffiths,Chairman SLCNG, and Mike Blomer, ReACT, with the
agreement. Looking on are Chris Powell ReACT, Peter Jackson, Managing Director
SLCNG, Steve Macartney, ReACT
SLCNG News
Our Sponsor
23
New Developments inFamily Intervention
Background
Family Intervention Projects (FIPs) were introduced in
2003 as a way of providing intensive support to families
who were causing significant anti-social behaviour in
their communities. A number of ‘pathfinder’ projects
were launched to test the principles underlying family
intervention and these projects have shown
demonstrable benefits. The initial areas were
� Sheffield
� Manchester
� Bolton
� Salford
� Oldham
� Blackburn & Darwen
Following the ‘pathfinders’’ experiences FIPs are now
being rolled out on a much wider basis and may well
become part of the mainstream responses to ASB.
They are designed around the specific needs of a
particular family and a key worker is assigned to ensure
the family is dealt with consistently and who acts as an
interface between the family and other service
providers.This worker makes written agreements with
the family members which, if broken, are punishable by
sanctions.
The form of intervention depends on the needs of the
family and is either based on ‘outreach’ or residential
support. Latest developments – the FITs
A key issue surrounding the Family Intervention
Projects was the concern about the type of tenancy the
family would have and new provisions in the Housing
and Regeneration Bill, published this month, address
this.
One of the key problems was moving tenants between
properties especially where there were different types
of tenure in place.
The Government has committed to legislate to give
social landlords the ability to offer tenancies that are
neither secure (local authorities) or assured (RSLs)
without having to grapple with complex allocations
procedures.
These new voluntary tenancies will be known as Family
Intervention Tenancies or FITs.
These FITs will be non-secure and will be granted to
families whose behaviour has been sufficient to warrant
possession proceedings. Families that successfully
complete the programme, however, will be offered
more security of tenure when they move from the FIP
into other accommodation.
But what about families that do not engage?
It is likely that such families will not be tolerated and
will risk being evicted from such accommodation with
the landlord issuing a Notice to Quit (28 days) and
obtaining a Court order for eviction.
Clearly this will be the very last resort and it is expected
that the threat of eviction is likely to act as a deterrent
from committing anti-social behaviour.
One key difference that should be borne in mind is the
fact that Local Authority tenants will have a right to a
review within 14 days if their landlord decides to
terminate the FIT.This will not be the case for RSL
tenants.
Please get in touch if you have any queries.
Tel: 01257 266008 Fax: 01257 249704
info@whiteheadsols.co.uk
Whiteheads Solicitors was
established in 1992 by Peter
Whitehead as one of the first
legal practices in the UK to
specialise solely in Social
Housing law.
Prior to founding the firm,
Peter, who is currently the
firm's Principal, was a partner at one of Manchester's
top generalist law firms before he decided to
dedicate his time to growing a business that
specialised in housing law.
Whiteheads is a specialist firm dedicated to serving
the Social Housing community. It has over 14 years'
experience of working with social landlords, local
authorities and police forces across the UK providing
the best service and expertise available.
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