ocial Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group
nuisance news The quarterly newsletter of the Social Landlords Crime and Nuisance Group
Issue 46
June 2008
Raising the Standard Last year, we re-designed Nuisance News and launched it
Recognise initiative and commitment
in its new colourful format. From reader feedback, the
Share best practice and raise performance across the
new style and layout has been appreciated. However, we are not resting on our laurels and this issue contains a
housing sector. Don’t delay - get your nominations in as soon as you can.
number of new and regular features. New Reporter Or more accurately, a commentator‌.. In line with our view that Nuisance News needs to be more reflective of current issues we have commissioned someone with authority and experience to
Representing You With over 300 member organisations, representing more than three million tenancies, the SLCNG is uniquely placed to make our members voice heard where it matters. One of the ways we do this is by responding to consultation papers issued by government. This issue contains a summary of our activity on your behalf. DDA Mental Health Training
provide a regular piece for our newsletter. The first article from
These training courses have
Deborah Ilott appears in this
proved so popular that a
edition.
further eight training
Many of you will know Deborah
events have been planned.
from her time at the Housing Corporation which she
Details have been sent to
joined in 2001. During this time she had policy responsi-
all members and they are
bility for data and performance management (including
summarised on page five.
the introduction of the new Performance Indicator
The importance of this
regime in 2006), efficiency, housing management and
training is demonstrated by the article from our sponsor,
anti-social behaviour. She worked closely with central
Whiteheads, in this issue.
Government on the implementation of the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003.
Conference and Exhibition - 7 & 8 October 2008 Our annual
Deborah has a long career in social housing, and she is
conference and
currently working for the Greater Norwich Housing
exhibition is now over
Partnership. The views that Deborah expresses in her
two days and being
articles are very much her own and we hope that she will
held at the Telford
generate comment from our readers.
International Centre.
New - Delivering Results Awards
By extending the
Inside you can see details of the Delivering Results
length of the conference , we will be able to provide
Awards which are designed to:
delegates with even more information on how they can
Identify innovation and excellence in tackling anti-
develop effective strategies for tackling anti-social
social behaviour
behaviour.
SLCNG
In this issue
Editorial
SLCNG
Editorial Delivering Results Awards Representing You Mediation Events Diary
Insider’s View
2 3 4 5 5
Whiteheads ReACT
Feature
LB of Haringey
Member’s News
National Conference Chelmer HP Broxtowe Youth Sanctuary HA Derby Homes Dominion HG One Vision mhs homes Leicester City Council Wales and West HA Clwyd Alyn Homezone Housing Three Valleys Housing Midland Heart LB Bexley Broomleigh Westcountry Housing H&F Homess Wigan & Leigh Housing Housing Hartlepool Eastlands Homes First Choice Homes Kirklees NH New Charter Sentinel Housing. Sheffield Homes H&F Homes
2
The much reported Home Office conference on 8 May together with the announcement by the Home Secretary about “anti-social behaviour we’re not having it” also saw the release of the ASBO figures for 2006 (figures for 2007 are due later this year).
Sponsor Features
Youth Opportunities
Government caught on the ASBO hook?
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7 24
Not surprisingly, the figures showed a down turn in the number of ASBOs granted in 2006. For those that have always been ideologically opposed to ASBOs, this probably came as good news. For practitioners it probably reinforced the view that we have become more sophisticated in the way we respond to anti-social behaviour. Certainly we are a long way from the early days of ASBOs when many housing providers saw the ASBO league tables as a way of demonstrating their macho approach to dealing with
8
anti-social behaviour, and there were certainly fewer tools and powers around ten years ago!
10 11 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 16 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 23 23
The difficulty facing the Government now is that there has been so much media (and, to a certain extent, Government) focus on ASBOs that the public believe that ASBOs are the ONLY tool available to tackle anti-social behaviour. This perception is something that SLCNG has highlighted in the housing press in the past. So, not surprisingly, the reduction in ASBO numbers has driven the Government into a flat spin as they are now being criticised for going soft on anti-social behaviour! Influencing the media is not easy. However it is important that the media, and our communities, understand that social landlords are not “going soft” on anti-social behaviour. The vast majority of our members have excellent relations with their local press, so now is the time to make sure that they get the right message about the successes we are seeing in our communities. Better still, tell the communities yourselves though leaflets, newsletters and face to face meetings about the positive improvements you are making. The Respect Task Force is gone but now we are to get the ASB Action Squad, as announced by the Home Secretary in May. With a very limited budget we are promised expert practitioners who, depending on who you listen to, will either (a) explain how tools and powers can be used or (b) kick some backsides. Either way, no one will argue that some partner agencies need some incentive to become more effective in multi agency working. Part of the ethos of SLCNG is to help spread good practice, so we will be doing all we can to support the squad once more details are known. Peter Jackson, Managing Director SLCNG, May 2008
SLCNG
Introducing the SLCNG Delivering Results Awards 2008 New for 2008, these awards recognise the achievements
The SLCNG “Delivering Results� awards are
of individuals and groups who have tackled anti-social
designed to:
behaviour and made a real and sustained difference to
an individual or a community during 2007-08.
Identify innovation and excellence in tackling antisocial behaviour
Award winners, who may be practitioners or residents,
Recognise initiative and commitment
are nominated by SLCNG members who believe the
Share best practice and raise performance across the
person or group deserves recognition for their efforts to
housing sector
tackle problems. There are three categories of award Tim Winter Award - for exceptional performance by
Tim Winter Award
employees of a SLCNG member organisation in tackling anti-social behaviour and making a real and sustained difference to an individual or a community.
Individual Award for for exemplary practice demonstrated
Individual Award
by an individual in combatting anti-social behaviour and delivering positive results.
Group Award for positive achievement by a group or team
Group Award
to making their neighbourhood safer.
Eligibility
Winners
The Tim Winter award is restricted to ASB
Winners will be announced by 12 September 2008
Practitioners from a SLCNG Member organisation.
and the awards will be presented at the SLCNG
Persons nominated for the individual and group
Annual Conference on 07 October 2008 at the
awards may be housing practitioners, tenants,
International Conference Centre, Telford.
residents or employees of another organisation
Further information
involved in tackling anti social behaviour and
For further information and to make a nomination
promoting respect in communities.
please visit the SLCNG website at
Nominations Nominations are invited from SLCNG members by not later than 01 August 2008.
www.slcng.org.uk or e-mail Nick@slcng.org.uk
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SLCNG
Representing You With over 300 member organisations, representing more than three million tenancies, the SLCNG is uniquely placed to make our members voice heard where it matters. One of the ways we do this is by responding to consultation papers issued by government.
On the Crime and Communities review, SLCNG said “Delivering high quality inter-agency working and achieving and communicating positive results are of fundamental importance in tackling crime and antisocial behaviour and promoting community confidence. Key indicators of such a standard include:
On the Sentencing Advisory Panel’s recommendations on ASBOs, SLCNG said “To tackle the causes of ASB we all appreciate that it is important that appropriate intervention and support is in place as an alternative to jail, but our concern is that these proposals might lead to an undermining of the whole ASBO regime. Although social landlords use a range of tools to deal with ASB, we know that ASBOs
giving a clear and unequivocal commitment by all relevant agencies and partnerships to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour in the
work and the removal of such a significant deterrent as imprisonment might mean that alternative, less effective interventions will need to be used.”
interests of the community
pursuing a comprehensive and coordinated strategy that balances prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation
providing effective support and protection for victims and witnesses
On the DCSF’s guidance on parenting orders, SLCNG said “There is no doubting the ability of social landlords to contribute significantly to the parenting agenda but the roles played by other partners requires reinforcing.
intervening early and decisively
SLCNG is confident that social landlords can play an
setting clear and realistic objectives
important role in supporting parents and families.
managing expectations
Many are already proving that they can succeed on the
investing in mediation and restorative justice
Parenting Agenda with the development of FIPs, for
delivering an effective information and communications strategy that ensures people know what is happening locally and that balances positive and negative events appropriately
working to ensure the Judiciary is sensitive to communities’ expectations
instance. The role that they play should not be taken for granted and neither should it be assumed that all landlords are in a position to become as involved as those with "beacon" status. The Guidance makes assumptions about the ability of social landlords, particularly RSLs, to commission parenting programmes or deliver parental support generally. Whilst it is true that some RSLs, particularly those with more resources, have done pioneering work
Copies of the complete consultation responses are available at www.slcng.org.uk 4
in supporting families it is unrealistic to expect all RSLs are in a position to deliver. Some expectations of Government might need to be dampened.”
SLCNG
Online Survey of Community Mediation Conflict Practitioners Network is running a survey of community mediation, online during May and June 2008. About the Survey This survey is to find out what those involved in community mediation need for its future development. Anyone can take part, as either an individual or an organisation. Invitations have gone to the 130 people who registered an interest in Conflict Practitioners Network and to about 200 community mediation services in the interMedial directory (at www.intermedial.org.uk). Most of these people work in community mediation, but the scope of the survey is broader, encompassing case referrers as well as mediators. Each group is asked to answer basic questions about what it
needs and how well its needs are met at the moment. Social landlords are the largest single group of case referrers for community mediation services. The survey represents the mediation community asking social landlords what they need as users of mediation, to help shape how community mediation may meet these needs. SLCNG is supporting the survey and would like to encourage social landlords to take part.
mediation may develop in the future. The Ministry of Justice supports the work of the Conflict Practioners Network in its efforts to provide a voice for Community Mediation, and is looking forward to the results of this survey in due course. The members of Conflict Practitioners Network are representatives of the following :Centre for Peaceful Solutions, Brent Manchester City Council Mediation Service
Discussion Forum
Mediation Hertfordshire
After the survey closes at the end of June, a discussion forum will open on the same website. The survey contributors will be provided with the survey analysis and invited to take part in a public discussion about its findings and options for how community mediation may develop in the future.
Mediation North Staffs Kent regional mediation services Mediation Support Ltd Resolute Systems (UK) Ltd Thames Valley Family Mediation The College of Mediators The Restorative Justice Consortium To take part in the survey, visit: www.conflictpractitionersuk.org
Conflict Practitioners Network This is a group of people working in community mediation to help define new options for how community
For further information, please contact support@intermedial.org.uk
Summer Events Dates
Topic
Where
10th June 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Newcastle upon Tyne
24th June 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Portsmouth
2nd July 2008
Southern Regional Meeting
London
9th July 2008
South West - South Wales Regional Meeting
Bristol
10th July 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Exeter
16th July 2008
North West - North Wales Regional Meeting
Oldham
22nd July 2008
Midlands Regional Meeting
Nuneaton & Bedworth
24th July 2008
Annual General Meeting of the SLCNG
Coventry
29th July 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
London
28th August 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Kenilworth
3rd September 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Sheffield
11th September 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
Liverpool
2nd October 2008
DDA Mental Health Training
London
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Insider’s View
Youth opportunities?
regular and on-going contact with these families, so it is
Deborah Ilott
absolutely fit and proper that social landlords should be
Well, the wait is finally over. We’ve spent almost six
able to signpost these vulnerable families in the
months holding our collective breath to see what the
direction of joined-up and intensive support. As the
Government’s plans are for how it would continue to
Action Plan rightly boasts, 99% of families using the
build on the excellent work of the Respect Taskforce and
Parenting Early Intervention Pathfinders (PEIPs) found
drive forward its commitments to tackling anti-social
the support they received helpful.
behaviour. As we all know, the Home Office will continue
Key worker
to have overall policy responsibility for anti-social behaviour, but much of the emphasis has shifted to the Department for Children, Schools and Families. In March their Youth Taskforce Action Plan – which outlines some of the future approaches in some detail, was published with some fanfare. So has much changed? Well no.
One of the risks that jumped out for me when reading through the Action Plan was that there is going to be a lot of pressure heaped upon the shoulders of the designated key workers for the young person at risk. The idea is that the young person will sign an acceptable behaviour contract and will then be supported by the ‘assertive’ and ‘persistent’ key worker. The Action Plan
The Plan reiterates the valid mantra that all social
outlines the scenario where a young person’s ASB is
landlords know and love of enforcement, support and
linked to substance misuse. The ‘persistent’ key worker
prevention. And those headline grabbing soundbites are
will then help the young person get access to drug
still there – the exec summaries and press releases are
treatment.
littered with the Daily Mail friendly language of ‘toughness’ and ‘non negotiable.’
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through the gaps. Social landlords often have the most
This sounds fine in theory, but is a long way from the reality of the chronic shortage of places in drug
So has much changed? Well yes.
treatment programmes up and down the country. Social
The emphasis on young people was not a surprise, but
landlords need to continue to use their voices to make
does represent a change of focus. There are a number of
sure that schemes do get the proper resources that they
challenges for all agencies working with young people.
need. The Action Plan does come with a generous £218m
Quite rightly, there is a need to acknowledge the
of funding, but as we all know, intensive approaches can
devastating effects of poor – or often absent – parenting.
deliver astonishing results, but they can take up a huge
There has been much debate within the social housing
amount of resources.
sector on the role that landlords should play in this area
What other roles are there for social landlords in helping
with some commentators feeling that the ability of
the Government deliver this ambitious Plan? Well
landlords to get involved in Parenting Orders and
behind the tough rhetoric, there will be a need for
Contracts is a step too far. But if we can begin to direct
landlords to back up the laudable commitments to
parents to get to grips with some of basic building
support and prevention by continuing to use their
blocks of parenting skills that many of us take for
enforcement tools.
granted, then this is one of the biggest steps that we can
When a family does not, cannot or will not engage with
collectively take towards helping deliver sustainable
support, the sanctions have to applied. Stats from CLG
communities.
and the Housing Corporation show that applications for
Obvious problem
ASB Injunctions and Orders continue to be successfully
One of the more obvious problems that social landlords
used by Local Authorities and Housing Associations.
and agencies working with vulnerable or at risk families
Social housing will continue to be a key plank of this
face is the often appalling consequences of what
ambitious delivery programme, regardless of which
happens when the safety nets fail and individuals fall
Government department co-ordinates its delivery.
Sponsor Maritime Housing Association Limited & ‘D’
capacity to understand and as D had been relocated, the injunction was not continued and a trial listed for February 2008. 2008
Possession success despite serious mental health issues In March 2008, the Regenda Group (Maritime) won a
January - D tried to terminate her tenancy and the Claimant accepted this reluctantly as, despite D’s alleged capacity, she was still a protected party. It was then left to the Court to decide whether D had capacity to end her tenancy.
February – at Trial, the Judge changed his mind
case against a tenant (D) who had engaged in violence
about D’s capacity and said that the claimant should
and threatening behaviour at one of its Sheltered
not have accepted the termination. Ultimately a
Schemes.
possession order was made as it was concluded that
The tenant, who had complex mental health issues had
D’s conduct had affected the health and safety of
been making life a misery for those living around her,
others.
was eventually forced to give up her property.
Despite the length of this case and the challenges that
This case goes to show that despite the potential
the Claimant faced, the outcome was a success.
barriers presented by mental health and disability,
A few things that you may need to consider:
solutions to ASB can be found.
What is disability and is the defendant disabled?
Below is a brief chronology of the key facts in the case:
Does the defendant have capacity?
2007
Have these been investigated fully?
Do they need a litigation friend and should the
June - a without notice ASBI was made against the defendant who was later arrested for assaulting a Scheme Warden.
What can other agencies do to help?
Commenting on this case, Steve Blackburn, Acting
produced. A psychiatric examination was ordered,
Director of Maritime said: “This was an extremely
while D was remanded at HMP Styal.
challenging case for Maritime, both for its staff and
September - an NSP was served on D while on
more importantly the residents who were experiencing
remand during which time she continued to be
the ASB. I am extremely pleased that despite the
violent and abusive. At this point the Official
challenges we were able by working in partnership
Solicitor (OS) became involved.
with the residents involved and Whiteheads Solicitors
October - the Defendant was deemed to be a
to obtain a successful outcome”.
and further medical assessment was ordered. A DDA specialist Judge was appointed. Social Services (SS) eventually engaged with D for rehousing. Mid-November - D diagnosed with Organic Personality Disorder and remanded to hospital for a full report. Claimant issued possession proceedings
August - further violence and D was arrested and
Protected Party under the Mental Health Act 1983
Official Solicitor be involved?
The full case The chronology of this case can be found in full on the SLCNG website – www.slcng.org.uk. Please contact Whiteheads for any advice on dealing with ASB and Mental Health. Christine Shilston
and applied to exclude D from the housing scheme.
Whiteheads Solicitors Limited
December - the Court found that D did have
April 2008
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Feature
Balancing enforcement alongside prevention and intervention Haringey’s Anti-Social Behaviour Action Team has been operating since October 2003. In addition to the dedicated officers investigating cases of ASB, the team also has a police officer, two dedicated ASB lawyers and three parenting support staff. The team has high profile in Haringey and has received recognition nationally from various Government departments in combating ASB in the borough. It is tasked to investigate the most serious incidents which include hate crime, violence or threats of violence, gang related activity as well as drug dealing and prostitution. The team balances enforcement alongside prevention and intervention successfully and this has been further supported by the establishment of the Family Support Service. CCTV The team has its own CCTV officer who has access to equipment operated and owned by the service. This includes a state of the art CCTV covert van and other overt and covert cameras, which are used to detect incidents of ASB and lead to appropriate enforcement action. A number of brothels and crack houses have been closed due to this surveillance as well as prosecutions relating to fly tipping and assaults against residents. The van has been deployed in covert night time operations with the police as well as other high profile investigations where covert surveillance is required. Engaging with over 1,000 children Each year the team engages with over a 1,000 school children over a two week period as part of the junior citizen programme. They work with year 7 pupils and through the use of games, puzzles and quizzes the team has devised itself, alert young people to the impact anti social behaviour has on others as well as discussing bullying and harassment issues that they too may have been subject to. The team also has a rolling programme of attending primary and secondary schools to deliver its message on the consequences should young people embark on a path of anti social behaviour activity. Family Support More recently the Family Support Service has been established, to engage with the most prolific families engaging in anti social behaviour. The appointment of the dedicated
If you would like your organisation featured in Nuisance News, please contact Nick Mackley, Tel: 024 7623 1748
Email : nick@slcng.org.uk
8
parenting practitioner and two staff seconded to the service, has ensured the delivery of the ‘triple p’ and ‘’strengthening family programme’ to those families most at risk of further enforcement action or eviction from their homes. The programme is a mixture of parenting classes as well as one to one support with the parent /carer and the young people in their household. In addition, the floating support workers go into households to offer practical day to day support in general day to day household tasks, such as ensuring parents get their children to school , homework is completed or advice and support on household budgeting and management. This support has led to parents/carers being better equipped with the skills necessary to manage household conflict and behavioural issues both inside and outside of the home.
Feature
Recognition for their work The team has received a number of accolades for the work it has done. In 2006, they received a special commendation award for partnership working under the Building Safer Communities TOGETHER award. Last year the team drew attention from the then RESPECT Task Force with a letter of commendation being sent to the Council’s Chief Executive. This year two of its officers are receiving special commendation awards from the Borough Commander, in recognition of work carried out to reduce anti –social behaviour. before, like expecting them to telephone us." Bagnall added that
Young people text in crimes in confidence
his team carry work mobiles to receive texts from young people and check a
Young people on a London estate are using text messaging to report antisocial behaviour discreetly and without fear of recrimination, in an initiative which is believed to be the first of its kind. Young residents on the Campsbourne Estate, in Haringey, are being encouraged to use MSN, texts, email or phone to secretly report any trouble they witness or fear on the estate. The initiative is the brainchild of Haringey's Anti-Social Behaviour Action Team, which is leafleting every household on the estate with details of how to report incidents. Mike Bagnall, antisocial behaviour manager at Haringey Council, said the idea is to connect with young people through a medium with which they feel comfortable. "We looked at how young people communicated with each other and it's through text and MSN Messenger," he said. "It seemed a good idea to engage with them in that way rather than the traditional methods that we used
computer for incoming emails and to respond to any concerns and reports on MSN. The leaflet asks if any young people are aware of any anti-social behaviour on the estate or if they have been a victim of bullying, harassment, violence or robbery. It provides a number and email address to contact in confidence without needing to leave their name. The leaflet stresses that even if they do leave their details, they will not be identified to any third party without their express permission. "We do have issues with antisocial behaviour and gangrelated incidents," Bagnall said. "Young people can be subjected to harassment and muggings so we want to hear about it and see what we can do to help. Often they won't share that information so we're trying to reach them and say they can make a report in confidence." At present the project is a pilot scheme but if it proves successful it could be introduced throughout the London borough.
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10
Member’s News
Fresh start for homelessness charity
Combining to combat ASB Chelmer Housing Partnership (CHP) has been praised by Essex Police after a 17% reduction in antisocial behaviour incidents in the Chelmsford and Maldon area. CHP’s Estate Rangers regularly partner and patrol alongside Police Community Support Officers, offering ASB intelligence relating to drug use and vandalism while providing a visible and reassuring presence to communities.
Broxtowe Single Homeless Action Group has changed its name to Broxtowe Youth Homelessness and received over £200,000 from the Big Lottery Fund. The funding will be used to prevent and tackle homelessness across south Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. Two new staff members will work directly with schools and youth groups to spread awareness about homelessness and money management. They will provide support to parents of teenagers at risk of being asked to leave the family home. Kay Verity, Project Manager, said: “We’re changing our name to better reflect the work we do. We aim to work with young people to prevent and tackle homelessness and our new name makes this clear straight away.”
Since the partnerships implementation three years ago, Essex Police has seen a reduction of 17% or 3,159 ASB cases in the Central area on last year.
Like to know more then contact:
Jenny Allen 07951 347 360
Failure to modify anti-social behaviour
Inspector Cheryl Callow from Essex Police said “The
A West Midlands family have been evicted from their
work on ASB has to be done in partnership and, as one
housing association home following more than 200
of our biggest partners; CHP has shown that it takes
reported anti-social incidents between 2004 and 2007.
this very seriously. Our relationship with them is one of the best that I have come across in my 29 years of policing, and I would like to thank CHP and its entire staff.” patrols with CHP and they have given us vital intelligence in relation to neighbour nuisance, drug use and abandoned vehicles. They are very good at their job as they highlight potential problems to us at an early stage.”
modify their anti-social behaviour having been served with The family moved into their three-bedroom house in December 2004 but complaints of anti-social behaviour followed, including family members shouting and swearing abuse at each other and the neighbours, banging doors, damaging properties and fighting with the neighbours. In September 2007 the association, applied to the courts
Terri Cochrane, from CHP, said:“ Receiving this recognition is wonderful, especially for the team as it boosts their morale and allows them to realise that they are doing a fantastic job. Our working relationship with Esssex Police benefits tenants as we create and
Like to know more then contact:
achieve
Victoria Norton, 01245 613111
safety.”
their property in Tividale, Oldbury, because they failed to an injunction and demotion order.
PCSO Karen Garwood added “We carry out regular
community
Beth Johnson Housing Association evicted the family from
Victoria.norton@chelmerhp.org.uk
for an injunction and demotion order. When the family failed to change their behaviour a Notice Requiring Possession was served and the family were evicted. Mandi Pullen, Beth Johnson tenancy services manager, said: “Beth Johnson takes all reports of antisocial behaviour very seriously and will not tolerate this type of behaviour. Eviction is always our last resort and we will always try to work with residents to amend their behaviour.”
11
Member’s News
Family Intervention Project
a number of occasions,” said Emma Holland, Specialist Support Worker. “He described his son’s behaviour and told us about several incidents that had taken place
Derby Homes has helped a family through a new
and, as a result, we agreed to intervene on his behalf. I
initiative – the Family Intervention Project. The family
first visited the family in February to discuss rotas and
were referred to the project in November when they
household rules and, during that visit, I witnessed the
were in danger of losing their tenancy because of
son being aggressive towards his father. The father and
incidents of anti-social behaviour caused by the family’s
I left the house until the situation calmed down.”
son. In December 2007, the family were granted a
“The father was very upset by his son’s behaviour,”
license to occupy a Derby Homes property managed by
Emma added. “He was scared but wouldn’t report him
the project.
as he didn’t want to get his son into trouble and also
The project provides a range of support services and
feared reprisals.”
specialist accommodation to help families and children
Derby Homes took immediate action by applying for an
at risk of becoming homeless, or who have become
injunction through the courts. A 12 month exclusion
homeless due to anti-social behaviour.
order banning the son from the area was granted,
When the family moved into the property, the son was
together with a power of arrest. “This positive action
being held in custody for a number of offences. He was
has helped the family overcome the problems they
released on bail in January 2008 and appeared at Derby
were experiencing,” commented Maureen Davis,
Magistrate’s Court charged with racially aggravated
Operations Manager. “It is an excellent example of the
assault, assault by beating, obstruction of a police
work being carried out by the Family Intervention
officer, possession of a bladed instrument, and
Project, which provides intensive and vital support for
breaching his Anti Social Behaviour order by using foul
families at risk of
or abusive language in a public place.
losing their home.”
“The father of the family told us that he had been
residents who have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their homes. “The eviction has been a great relief for all our residents who can now relax in their homes without the constant
Dominion Housing Group has finally secured the eviction
fear and worry that has plagued their lives over the past
of a trouble-making alcoholic who has been a nuisance
eight years.”
to his Oxford neighbours for over eight years.
The eviction comes as part of Dominion Housing Group’s
The 51 year old tenant has been evicted from his bedsit
commitment to the Respect Charter, which it signed up
following several years of threatening behaviour, loud
to last year. This indicates their commitment to the
music, shouting and fighting associated with drug abuse
Government’s standard for housing management and
and prostitution.
the drive to create a culture of respect within
The Group had previously attempted to intervene and
communities.
help him by working with his support worker and
For Dominion, this includes Good Neighbour Agreements
offering him temporary respite in a homeless hostel.
that indicate responsibilities and expectations between
Erika Bayley, Housing Services Team Leader , said: “This
the Group and its residents and strategies for tackling
tenant refused all offers of help as he did not wish to give
low-level anti-social
To find out more
up drinking. This left us with no choice but to press for
behaviour.
Aicha Kassoul 0207 569 7005
eviction for the safety and well-being of the other
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Jane Bettany, 01332 711044, jane.bettany@derbyhomes.org
physically assaulted and mentally abused by his son on
Eviction secured as Respect Charter comes into action
To find out more
aicha.kassoul@dominionhg.co.uk
Member’s News
Uniting to tackle anti-social behaviour Housing associations across Sefton have joined forces to help combat anti-social behaviour and hate crime. The new group, known as the Registered Social Landlords Anti-Social Behaviour Forum, draws members from a number of housing associations. These include One
anti-social behaviour.
Vision, Riverside , Adactus, Cosmopolitan, Rodney, Evolve,
The forum draws together a wide range of bodies
Breath Plus and Maritime.
including Sefton Council, the Police and statutory and
The purpose of the forum is to develop effective
voluntary agencies to work closely to build sound
measures to tackle anti-social behaviour in Sefton; to
working relationships to effect real change.
share information and good practice and to promote
Recent statistics show that the partnership is already
joint working on specific issues.
seeing results having recently secured 11 injunctions
The forum will act as an information outlet to help
against individuals in Sefton identified as causing anti-
organisations apply and implement the Government’s
social behaviour; with three of these including exclusion
agenda for community improvement through initiatives
orders preventing the individual from entering certain
like the Respect Standard for Housing Management. It
areas and/or
Like to know more then contact:
will also encourage the development of best practice to
properties.
Joe Mullis, One Vision Housing 0845 140 1234.
enhance community safety and to combat and reduce
mhs homes win case at court of appeal mhs homes and residents in Chatham are celebrating after the Court of Appeal upheld an outright possession order that had been brought against a nuisance tenant in November 2007. The tenant has made her neighbours lives a nightmare for the last nine years. They suffered at the hands of the 51 year old, who the court was told has a personality disorder. She subjected her neighbours to verbal abuse, harassment and intimidation, all of which
support and advice she refused to change her behaviour. In November 2007 over two days, Maidstone county court heard from witnesses that had been affected by the nuisance behaviour, and the judge granted an outright possession order. The tenant appealed against this decision and in March the case was heard at the court of appeal. Lord Justice Tuckey said “Ultimately, the question of whether an outright possession order should be made is very much one for the trial judge, particularly in a case such as this, because the court has to strike a balance between the interest of the tenant, the landlord and the other tenants. In this case it seems to
lead to one neighbour selling his house and moving
me that the
from the area because he could not cope.
decision to make
Despite mhs homes efforts to work with the tenant
the order was
over a number of years, offering the appropriate
plainly right”
Like to know more then contact:
Georgina Messenger 01634 354273 Georgina.messenger@mhs.org.uk
13
Member’s News
S222 used to tackle anti social nuisance telephone calls.
ASB Forum in Wales Wales and West HA, in conjunction with other
Leicester City Council used the S222 Local Government Act to
RSLs in Wales established a forum in late
obtain an injunction against a female resident who repeatedly
2006. The aim of the forum was to focus on
called the 999 emergency services when drunk.
Wales based ASB practitioners needs –
The defendant was often aggressive and verbally abusive towards
enabling the sharing of best practice,
the emergency services who responded to the calls so police
resources and experiences in tackling ASB. In
officers also had to attend. She caused distress to local residents
addition, the forum assists in giving members
when drunk by being verbally abusive, shouting, screaming and
confidence to take enforcement action
threatening people. She claimed illness and demanded
themselves rather than instructing solicitors.
ambulances come to her property. The majority of times the
Hate Crime Toolkit’ Funding
ambulance crews attended, she refused to go to hospital, didn’t need any medical treatment or left the hospital refusing to be seen by medical staff.
The forum has also been recently successful in gaining match funding through the Welsh Assembly Government’s Social Housing
In a year, the defendant made 278 unnecessary calls to the 999
Management Grant to develop a ‘Hate Crime
number so Leicestershire Constabulary contacted the Council.
Toolkit’.
The Council obtained an Interim Order and then a Final Order with a Power of Arrest attached.
The aim of the toolkit is to provide a framework of good practice with which to
In a two year injunction, the defendant was forbidden from causing nuisance or annoyance to anyone in the City of Leicester; from using or threatening violence towards anyone in the City, from using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour to anyone in the City.
successfully deal with cases of hate crime. The toolkit will cover all aspects of dealing with hate crime at every stage that a housing association receiving a report of hate crime will be expected to deal with:
She was also ordered not to be drunk on any public highway or other public place in the City and, crucially, she was ordered not to make telephone calls to any of the emergency services unless the situation was an emergency as would be deemed an emergency
•
crime
•
Addressing the needs of the victim in respect of physical measures such as
by a reasonable sober person.
target hardening equipment and support
The Judge making the order stated that he believed that, without
that can be provided by either the
the order, what was inevitable was that “you are going to call out
association or external agencies and
the ambulance service and they will be attending your calls instead of someone who really needs it which could result in a fatality.“ The defendant has breached the order four times. After suspended sentences, giving her the chance to seek help with her alcohol
14
Taking and recording a report of hate
abuse (which she failed to do),
Like to know more then contact:
the Court sentenced her to
Caroline Frith
four months in custody.
Caroline.Frith@Leicester.gov.uk
partners
•
Legal actions that can be taken to remedy the situation
• •
The role of the police The support that should be afforded to victims and witnesses during any action taken and beyond.
Member’s News
Custodial sentence for breach of ASBI
Taking swift action
A judge has ordered that a 20 year old man serve an eight
Homezone Housing was forced to move
month custodial sentence for breaching an Anti-Social
very quickly when a tenant breached an
Behaviour Injunction.
interim injunction within 24 hours of it
The man, who was serving an 18 month jail term at Stoke Heath
being made.
Young Offenders Institute, for breaching his Anti-Social
The tenant had a recent history of anti-social
Behaviour Order, appeared before Rhyl County Court to face an
and nuisance behaviour; asking neighbours
application brought by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, part of
to help her kill herself, threats to kill herself
the Pennaf Housing Group.
to members of staff, and threats to other
The original Injunction was obtained in September 2006. The
residents with glass. There was also general
conditions include banning him from entering Mochdre, causing
forms of nuisance including shouting and
or engaging in conduct capable of causing nuisance or
screaming, banging on doors, ringing
annoyance and not to approach, threaten or intimidate Clwyd
doorbells, and repeatedly setting off fire
Alyn tenants.
alarms.
In the summer of 2007, he was back before the court and found
She had made repeated threats of burning
guilty of three breaches of the Injunction. He was sentenced to
herself, her flat, her neighbours’ flats and the
six months custody suspended for two years and the Injunction
claimant’s offices. She had in fact burned
and Exclusion Order was extended until September 2009.
several items in her own flat and had
A further breach followed in September and he would have faced court action at an earlier date had he not been brought before the Crown court, convicted and imprisoned for breaching
attempted to set fire to her sleeve. Three medical assessments concluded that she actually had no mental health problems, but was attention seeking.
his Anti-Social Behaviour Order. The District Judge said “If I had to live near you, I would want protection and I would be looking for people to slap an ASBO
In February 2008, Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP applied for a without notice injunction. This was issued and made with a power of
on you.” Deciding not to extend the Injunction’s terms and conditions further as was requested, District Judge Farmer told him that “If there are any further breaches, you are likely to face an ASBI and exclusion far greater than what you have currently.” He added that if brought before him again,“Your feet will not touch the
arrest and served on the tenant on the same day. On the following day, the woman attempted to enter managing agent’s offices and threatened to burn employees and burn the building down. The police were called, at
ground.” Tracey Shenton, Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator for Clwyd Alyn said:“As a housing association we will continue to take robust action to protect our tenants and the wider public from anti-social behaviour. This man has shown little or no regard for these orders since they were imposed by the courts. Instead he has chosen a way of life that sees him blatantly breaching these orders within days, sometimes
Like to know more then contact:
hours of his release from
Judith Gavin01745 536839
prison.”
Judith.gavin@pennaf.co.uk
which point she confronted them, carrying a piece of glass. She was arrested and remanded in custody. Before a District Judge in Walsall, an Injunction was awarded fully in the terms requested including an exclusion order from the property. A Power of Arrest was also granted in respect of the parts of the Injunction relating to the exclusion, and threats to harm.
15
Member’s News
Employees and contractors given protection
Joining forces for the rural roadshow Staff from Three Valleys Housing, Erewash
Midland Heart Limited applied for an Injunction Order
Borough Council,
against a tenant as a result of him verbally abusing,
Derbyshire Police and
intimidating and showing aggression towards their
Derbyshire Fire &
employees and contractors.
Rescue Services joined forces for a rural roadshow in March. The Three Valleys Housing’s roadshow bus visited Breadsall, Morley, Little Eaton and Stanley, to give residents an opportunity to raise any concerns they have.
hearing took place in November at which the tenant indicated he wished to defend the proceedings. The District Judge made an interim Injunction Order and Power of Arrest to protect the association’s employees and contractors until the matter was determined at trial.
Housing Officer Ian Kirk said:“We recognise that
At the trial in December, in his Defence, the tenant denied
residents in rural areas may not always find it easy to
many of the allegations made by the association and
visit our offices. We’ve teamed up with the Police, the
admitted that he was an outspoken person. However, he
Council and the Fire and Rescue Service to make our
claimed that he was not rude but that sometimes he did
services more accessible to the community.”
tend to lose his fuse and use foul language as he is only
Visitors to the roadshow were able to raise a host of
“human”. Furthermore, because of multiple sclerosis, he
issues regarding their homes, tenancies and
claimed he could not always contain his temper.
neighbourhoods and find out about crime prevention
The District Judge did not accept the tenant’s contention
Like to know more then contact:
advice and
home fire safety Phil Campbell, 0844 770 3500 phil.campbell@threevalleyshousing.com checks.
Stamping out racism and bullying in schools
that he tended to be verbally abusive because of his medical condition. She felt there could not be any excuse for such behaviour despite the alleged disrepair to his property. She felt the problems the tenant had with his property could have been dealt with calmly and through legal avenues if necessary. An Injunction Order and Power of Arrest was made
The London Borough of Bexley has joined a growing
against the tenant which expires in January 2009 together
number of Local Authorities piloting anti-bullying
with an Order that the tenant pays Midland Heart
software to identify and tackle racism and bullying in
Limited’s costs. The tenant has subsequently been served
their schools
with the Injunction Order and Power of Arrest and there
By recording and monitoring incidents of harassment
have been no further incidents. However, the tenant has
within schools, teaching staff and local authority officials
lodged a request for permission to appeal with the Court
will have a greater understanding of issues relating to
of Appeal and this request is still to be determined on the
racism and bullying.
papers.
As well as recording details of the perpetrator, the
Yetunde Dania Partner at Shoosmiths says: “Employees
software also allows details of the by-standers and their
and contractors are entitled to carry out their daily duties
involvement in bullying incidents to be recorded. This is
in the knowledge they will be safe. As this case
important to schools as it enables members of staff to
demonstrates, the courts are supportive in situations
identify all parties directly and indirectly involved in the
where tenants do not behaviour courteously. ”
bullying.
16
An on notice injunction was applied for and the first
Member’s News
Junior Wardens boost for Beckenham estate
these projects will really help to galvanise this. The Good Neighbourhood Agreement sets out clearly what standards people would like to see upheld in the area, while the children on the estate are really excited about being junior wardens. Their enthusiasm during the sessions has been really encouraging to see. They have learned about their estate and we hope it will instil a sense of pride and inspire them to take ownership of their local area.“ She added,“We’ve been very impressed by how well the junior warden scheme has been received and plan to roll this out to other Broomleigh estates over the coming year. We’ve been working hard on Hackington over the past two years and it’s been one of our priority management areas. During this time, we’ve obtained funding through the Safer Bromley Partnership to set
Beckenham MP Jacqui Lait (right) with some of the junior
up a popular new community flat, as requested by the
wardens
residents. In addition, we provided funding to install a
Young environmental champions who are working to
CCTV system for the local residents in March 2007. The
improve their local area received their stripes from
residents have been really pleased with the impact this
Beckenham MP Jacqui Lait. The nine youngsters, aged
has had on their local area and now attend events
eight to 12, from the Hackington estate in Beckenham,
regularly with their families.”
received their junior warden certificates. The youngsters have learned about environmental issues, like how criminal damage, graffiti and fly-tipping can have a negative impact on the area and on local residents as part of the scheme. They also took part in practical projects, like a minirecycling and litter picking group. Organised by housing provider Broomleigh, the project was originally set to last for four weeks but due to the enthusiasm of the participants and course leaders it was extended to seven weeks.
Mohamed Tejan-Kamara (one of Broomleigh HA's
A Good Neighbourhood agreement, drawn up by local
Neighbourhood Wardens) with the Junior Wardens on
residents, was also signed at the event. The agreement
Hackington estate, Beckenham, Kent
includes standards which residents would like to see kept up in the area, such as keeping communal areas clean and tidy and treating neighbours with respect.
Several teams from Broomleigh have helped set up the junior warden scheme, including housing officers and team leaders, tenancy service officers, neighbourhood
Liz Chambers, anti-social behaviour team leader at
wardens and
Broomleigh, said she was delighted with both projects.
community
She said:“The people of Hackington are working hard
investment
to foster a strong community spirit in their area and
officers.
Like to know more then contact:
Liz Chambers liz.chambers@broomleigh.org.uk
17
Member’s News
Making a difference in Torquay Residents of Sussex Close in Torquay have been successfully
A closure order and eviction eventually brought
working with Westcountry Housing, Torbay Council Street
relief to residents who were suffering with drug
Wardens and the Police to tackle anti-social behaviour and
related ASB
make their Close a better place to live.
Residents of a quiet estate were in the unfortunate
Sussex Close has previously had problems with vandalism,
position of having to cope with serious anti-social
graffiti, drug dealing, verbal abuse from children and noise
behaviour connected to drug use and dealing
nuisance. Westcountry does not tolerate anti-social behaviour
taking place in and around one particular flat. All
and so action was taken against a resident who was evicted in
but two residents were too scared to come forward
Summer 2007 for this behaviour. She and her young male
and supply the Housing Officer with the details of
friends had, under the influence of drugs and alcohol,
the perpetrator. Despite this major hurdle, the
dominated and intimidated the entire Close over an 18 month
Housing Officer and Anti-Social Behaviour
period. They verbally abused other residents, played loud
Coordinator from the Council were able to work
music and were a general nuisance till local residents bravely
co-operatively with the police. The Housing Officer
came forward as witnesses.
also kept in close contact with the residents and
Westcountry takes direct action as a last resort, using other
filtered the complaints into his own Court
actions first; four Acceptable Behaviour Contracts have been
statement, whilst protecting the residents'
signed by other local youths, following their further nuisance
identities.
behaviour at the Close in the past few months.
The police obtained enough evidence to be
Sussex Close has just been awarded a Community Award for
granted a Closure Order for three months and the
“the most improved area” in the
Anti-Social Behaviour Coordinator was able to
form of a cash prize of £100 - by
make a referral early enough for a possession
the Street Wardens and Torbay
hearing to be set within the Order period.
Council!
However, the tenant believed that she had grounds
Residents Emma Ayers, Cathy
to oppose the Council's application and the case
Hudson and Kirsty Higgs wanted
was adjourned to a later date. Owing to legal
to unite the community to prevent
technicalities, the case was adjourned a further two
further problems and so they organised a community project and a Community Service Volunteers Day. They and other residents leafleted the estate about their plans to tidy up their Close as part of ‘Make a Difference Day’.
18
Residents relief
times before it was finally heard almost 12 months later. After a full day in Court, the District Judge announced that H&F Homes and the Anti-social
Twenty adults and lots of kids came along on the day. The
Behaviour Unit had clearly proven that serious
result was a very clean estate and a much stronger sense of
breaches of tenancy had taken place for a
community through the shared work. Community pride is
sustained period. The Judge also highlighted that
now higher and one resident has set up a Neighbourhood
the "hearsay" evidence supplied by two of the
Watch scheme.
residents added significant weight to the direct
Emma’s daughter, Charlotte Peters, (10) signed up to be a
evidence given by the officers in Court. Possession
Junior Street Warden. This opportunity is available (through
was awarded within 14 days together with almost
Torbay Council) to all
Like to know more then contact:
full costs of
Like to know more then contact:
children aged
Vanessa Gray, 01803 217500
£5,000.
Kate Boulton 020 8753 4817
between 8 and 16.
vanessa.gray@westcountryha.org.uk
kate.boulton@hfhomes.org.uk
Member’s News
Wigan team wins police Oscar A team, which includes tenants and residents, Greater Manchester Police, Wigan and Leigh Housing and Wigan Council, scooped the Chief Constable's Excellence Award for Community Focus - just 18 months after it was set up. The pioneering partnership, which works out of Marsh Green library, was praised for going the extra mile and
Ashley Crumbley, chief executive of Wigan and Leigh
making a real difference to the lives of local people.
Housing said: "The Marsh Green project is an excellent
Now council, police and housing chiefs have vowed to
example of how communities working together with
use the lessons learned to benefit other communities
front line staff can tackle deep rooted issues such as
across the Wigan borough. The team has worked
anti-social behaviour. We are pleased the police and
together to tackle concerns raised by people living in
council are now applying some of these approaches
Marsh Green. A raft of successful initiatives has included:
elsewhere in the borough, and we will be delighted to
A crack down on off licences selling alcohol to under age drinkers
help out. We have invested nearly £260 million in recent years in transforming the appearance of our estates. We are delighted to see the community, police and other
Issuing contact cards to youths causing anti-social
front line staff, such as street cleaners and estate
behaviour
caretakers all working together to create better
Setting up a new youth club
neighbourhoods." Chief Inspector Bob Pell said: "It was
Clearing overgrown areas on the estate where youths
vital that local residents could easily access the team
were known to congregate
within the heart of the estate to encourage them to
Seizing and crushing off road motorbikes
bring concerns forward. The real success of working
New lay-bys to prevent vehicles causing an
together in this way meant that we were able to mobilise
obstruction
quickly and address the problems at source. This has
Gating off garage sites to prevent fly tipping
raised confidence and
Removing graffiti
Holding a Lancashire evening to break down barriers
encouraged local people Like to know more then contact: to report issues affecting Kathryn Walsh 01942 486831
between generations.
Residents praise work
their daily lives." out of hours to witness behaviour first hand in order for two Anti-social Behaviour Injunctions to be granted. She said:“People were understandably concerned of the consequences of coming forward and giving evidence.
Commitment by Housing Hartlepool’s Tenancy Relations and Enforcement Team has seen residents and partners
“We wanted to take this fear away by building trusting relationships with residents that allowed us to be
praise their work after a number of successful injunctions
granted our biggest ever injunction zones.”
in recent months.
The Team, which also includes members Sam Vasey and
Local residents were relieved when two nuisance
Andy Elvidge, received a Cleveland Police District
brothers reign of intimidation finally came to an end
Commanders commendation for work to reduce anti-
thanks to the team. The tenant’s sons were causing
social behaviour in the Rift House area of the town.
damage to cars, riding mini-motos, using threatening
They were nominated by Neighbourhood Police Officers
behaviour, and causing a nuisance.
for their work to engage young people on Acceptable
Natalie Gooding from the team worked with local police
Behaviour Contracts, which amended their behaviour.
19
Member’s News
New Powers for Neighbourhood Wardens Neighbourhood wardens in east Manchester are being given new powers to crack down on litter dropping and dog fouling. From March, Eastlands Homes’ 15 neighbourhood wardens had the authority to issue fixed penalty notices in Clayton, Beswick, Openshaw and Gorton. “Residents in east Manchester tell us they are fed up with people who dump litter and rubbish on their streets and that dog mess is a real
A milestone has been reached by the First Choice Homes Oldham’s - Respect Our Community Awards scheme with the announcement of the first awards. The Better Neighbourhoods Team has worked hard over the last few months promoting the awards to tenants and residents around Oldham and the first panel meeting was held in February to assess the bids. Failsworth has benefitted by nearly £2,000 for the Lynton and Walkers Respect Our Commnunity Hall. This project needed theatre equipment so that events could be staged in the community. More ‘professional performances’ will now be performed and, hopefully, with equipment more
concern,” said Sheila Doran, Chief Executive of Eastlands
people will get involved, particulary in
Homes. “We can now do something about this as our
production and stagecraft.
wardens will soon be able to take robust action against anyone who behaves in this way.
The Clarkwell Community Linking Project was successful in securing an award of more than
“Tenants and residents have been pressing us to deal with
£1,000. This money will help Clarkwell tenants
litter and dog mess. Since then, our staff have worked closely
and residents meet their neighbours living in
with Manchester City Council and the warden service
Limeside to discuss issues around, race, religion
advisory panel to look at the possibility of using the powers.”
and other topics that are important to both
Anyone caught dropping litter or allowing their dog to foul
communities.
in a public area will be given a fixed penalty notice. This
The Asha Girls' Group secured funding and
requires the offender to pay a fine of £50, which increases to
resources for their recycling project. The group
£80 after 14 days. If the fine is still not paid they will face a
will be assisted with their ideas around
court appearance.
developing clothes made from recycled material
“Most residents in east Manchester take great pride in their
to be showcased at a fashion show and for art
communities and work hard to make them as attractive as
created from recycled material, which will be
possible. That’s why it’s so disheartening to see people
displayed around the borough.
showing such a lack of respect.”
These awards are not just about money but
Although the powers came into force in March, no fixed
about using the resource bank that the Respect
penalty notices were issued during the first month to allow
Our Community Awards has built up over the
time for residents to find out about the wardens’ extra
months to help people accomplish their ideas.
authority. During this period, anyone who dropped litter or allowed their dog to foul were instead given a warning and told about the new powers.
20
Respect Our Community Awards
.
Like to know more then contact:
Jayne Winterbottom, 0161 770 4588.
Member’s News
Films to encourage children and young people An innovative new project that aims to tackle anti-social behaviour before it starts has been launched in Kirklees, West Yorkshire. Two films have been produced to encourage children and young people from 8 to 18 to think about the consequences of their actions and to foster a sense of respect and responsibility. The films have been developed by Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing working with Kirklees Council and an independent production company. They play out typical scenarios that children and young people find themselves in, firstly as part of a neighbourhood “gang”, and for the older audience, moving into their own place. The films feature young local actors and have a street style that audiences can relate to. The production
throughout the scripting, filming and editing, to make sure the key messages are conveyed appropriately and effectively for both target age groups. The films also include teaching materials to stimulate debate and discussion as part of the PSHE (physical, social, health and emotional well being) curriculum. All Kirklees schools will receive their own copy. Brett Dye, headmaster at Kirkheaton primary school said “This is an ideal resource to develop the social and emotional aspects of young people’s learning – I like the way children are encouraged to see how they might make other people feel.” Cora Carter MBE, chair of Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing, said “We are sure that students will enjoy these DVDs and see that they have to “Give respect to Get Respect”. Cllr Khizar Iqbal, the lead member for safer, stronger communities, said “Kirklees was one of the first areas in the country to sign up to the Government’s Respect Agenda”.
company worked alongside teachers and youngsters
Like to know more then contact:
Karen Oates 01484 416439
Aiming High A initiative funded by Denton South Partnership and the Primary Care Trust (PCT) has brought a new meaning to "Moving On Up" for young people in Tameside. Over four weeks, Tenancy Enforcement Officers from New Charter Housing Trust together with the Community Safety Unit, the PCT, the police and PCSOs took the group along to Awesome Walls in Stockport for challenging sessions climbing rock walls. The main aim of the initiative was to work with young people on the brink of causing serious anti-social behaviour and give them an opportunity to learn new skills and build new confidence. As well as learning how to use the rock climbing equipment and facing up to the challenges that climbing brings, they had sessions on First Aid training and healthy living. The initiative also provided a fantastic opportunity to break down barriers that can exist between the young people and the police. It proved to be a great leveller for all those involved having to deal with their own fears!
Like to know more then contact:
Mike Holt 0161 331 2317
21
Member’s News Lifestyle Education & Assistance Programme
It started over a chat in the pub A chance discussion in a pub lead to Sentinel setting up its Lifestyle Education & Assistance Programme (LEAP). “Over a drink in the pub a friend of mine told me that he had been stopped by the police for speeding. He explained that they had given him a choice, take the
partner agencies providing floating support, parenting skills, homecare advice and other advice on such issues as drugs or alcohol. Following attendance at a training day the perpetrator will sign a LEAP Agreement, and the prohibitions necessary to avoid further enforcement action. The agreement and any support package that complements it is closely monitored by the housing officer. Initial indications are that this is going to be a
points and a fine or attend a course to learn about the
successful initiative and a welcome addition to
effects of speeding” said Steve Thorn from Sentinel
Sentinel’s ASB toolkit.
Housing.
LEAP in Action
LEAP has developed into a programme combining
Miss M from Basingstoke is a single parent in her
enforcement with education, support and signposting.
twenties with a history of rent arrears and recent
It is not a family intervention scheme in the true sense
complaints against her relating to noise issues. She
of the term but there are mechanisms in place to
agreed to taking part in LEAP and since attending the
provide further support for families. There are many
course has kept a consistent payment record. There
similar schemes but the difficulty is getting
have also been no further complaints about noise.
perpetrators to attend without already having taken
She said :
some form of costly legal action to obtain an order. The
•
key element of LEAP is that it can get the commitment
comfortable and I felt I could I could talk.”
from perpetrators in the form of an agreement to avoid legal action being taken.
•
•
•
“My rent arrears are now up to date and I am paying
ASB but may be related to rent arrears, maintenance
on time. I don’t let my friends make any noise now
issues, gas servicing or any other tenancy breach.
because I understand what might happen.”
A letter is sent to the tenant confirming that they can
The comments are repeated by other participants.
avoid further enforcement action by taking part in the
LEAP has provided us with an effective way of handling
programme and engaging with their housing officer to
tenancy breaches without the need for expensive legal
change their behaviour. If they refuse to take part they
action. It has also shown that family intervention and
are informed that enforcement action will continue.
support for perpetrators is not just something for the
The beauty of the programme is that it is equally
local authorities and big players.
effective in tackling the minor recurring breaches as it is
Why not mull it over?
in dealing with persistent perpetrators who are being
“By looking at the good practice that is already out
considered for legal action.
22
“I didn’t just learn about my tenancy but it helped me to manage my money”
breaches of tenancy that could be dealt with through the scheme. These breaches may not necessarily be
“It made me understand my tenancy and I realised what could happen.”
How tenants get onto the scheme The process begins when a housing officer identifies
“It was really good, people made me feel
there and tweaking it to suit your own organisations
The LEAP Programme
circumstances even the smaller housing providers can
The LEAP programme consists of a day’s training
bolster up their toolkits.“ added Steve. “Get out and
covering all aspects of tenancy management together
about and see what others are doing. Mull it over with
with a tailored follow-up package of support using
colleagues over a couple of pints, it worked for us.!”
Member’s News Housing Act 1996 Injunctions
A very versatile remedy
nuisance and annoyance. Before the date of the hearing, the owner occupier cleared the rubbish out of the gardens and there was a considerable improvement to the state of the garden.
Sheffield Homes Anti-social Behaviour unit has recently
The court granted the injunction,which is to remain in
used Housing Act 1996 Act injunctions to tackle unusual
force for the next two years, and ensures that the owner
problems. The Injunctions have been approved by the
occupier keeps their garden free of rubbish and tidies
local County Court, indicating that their use as a remedy
the grass and hedges.
to many problems that cause others nuisance and
Violent ex-partner
annoyance.
A tenant of Sheffield Homes complained to the Council
Owner Occupier
that an ex-partner who had been a frequent visitor to her
A Sheffield Homes tenant complained about her
home during a brief relationship, was harassing her. His
neighbour, an owner occupier, piling household rubbish
permanent address was in another part of the city. The
in their own garden and failing to maintain the grass and
tenant had ended the relationship with her partner
hedges within it. The owner occupier's garden was a
because of his criminal behaviour.
complete eyesore. Cardboard boxes, fridges, sofas,
Her partner did not accept the end of the relationship
vacuum cleaners and animal cages filled both the front
and continued to threaten to harm and kill her over the
and back gardens and there was an infestation of mice.
phone and was abusive about her child, who was born
The tenant and officers at Sheffield Homes spoke with
during a previous relationship.
the owner occupier to ask them to sort out the garden.
Sheffield Homes applied for a without notice injunction
Written and verbal requests were not effective and the
basis to keep the ex partner away from our tenant and
state of the gardens steadily got worse.
her child. The Court agreed and made the injunction to
An injunction was applied for against the owner occupier
last for 18 months. The ex-partner was given an
by the City Council on the basis that the state of the
opportunity to attend court after the order was made to
gardens at the owned property was causing their tenant
set aside the Order, but did not do so.
Lack of engagement leads to eviction
These attempts failed and the tenant was then left written warnings of what would happen to the tenancy if the agreement was breached. No complaints were received for several months. Disappointingly, complaints gradually started to come
A tenant who persistently failed to engage with H&F Homes and the Anti-Social Behaviour Unit (ABSU) was recently evicted following a closure order. H&F Homes and the ASBU were advised when the tenant moved into the property that he had a history of drug use, coupled with anti-social behaviour at his previous on-licence property. Therefore, they tried to engage with him from the start of his secure tenancy. Numerous attempts were made at contact to ensure all relevant support could be put in place and that the tenant understood his responsibilities.
in relating to drugs and anti social behaviour and further attempts at contact with the tenant were made which were ignored. The Police were also informed and the excellent information sharing relationship between H&F Homes , the ASBU and the Police led to a Closure Order being obtained. The property was sealed and the Court granted H&F Homes an order
Like to know more then contact:
possession in
Kate Boulton 020 8753 4817
February 2008.
kate.boulton@hfhomes.org.uk
23
Sponsor
Poplar HARCA and partner RSLs ReACT to anti social behaviour
simple matter to share information about cases and incidents and to produce reports and statistics either individually or collectively. Partnership members In addition to Poplar HARCA the Tower Hamlets Partnership members are: Tower Hamlets Community Housing Trust, Spitalfields HA, Bethnal Green & Victoria Park HA, One Housing, Newlon, Eastend Homes.
Seven social housing landlords in the London Borough of
Fully up to date
Tower Hamlets have adopted a partnership approach to
The ongoing formal partnership that ReACT has with
record and share information about ASB
both HouseMark and Social Landlords
in the Borough.
Crime and Nuisance Group ensures
The consortium, ably led by Sarah Castro,
that the system is kept fully up to date
Community Safety Manager at Poplar
with best practice and legal
HARCA, invited competitive tenders from
requirements. With some 70 social
a number of specialist suppliers.
housing landlords and over 800 front
Following an evaluation exercise they chose ReACT
line ASB staff having access, ReACT is now considered the
which went live as a 135 user system on 1st April. The
market leader in dedicated ASB software.
three year renewable contract is hosted by Electronic
Like to know more
Business Systems.
For information about ReACT contact
24/7 access
Mike Blomer on 0121 384 2513
Each of the partner landlords has internet access to
email: mikeb@e-b-s.co.uk
ReACT 24/7. Whilst cases and procedures for dealing
go to www.e-b-s.co.uk/react
with ASB are kept separate for each organisation it is a
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New pa Dec 2007 rtn major so ership with ftware compan y
nuisan This issu
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lords Crim
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anti-social behaviour.
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This issue Group includes Issue 43 articles the follow from Sep 2007 ing memb ers:Acis Group Anthony Any memb Collin ers visitin Birmingham s Solicitors g our stand at the CIH conference City Counc Bolton il at Harrogate at Home in June would have Calico HA noticed the enorm Camden ous of amou interest Council nt – not just Chelmer from existing HA members Cherwell but also poten HA tial memb Coast & ers. Country We were Housing pleased Cobbetts to have experts legal from White Colchester heads on Borough sign for hand to future coope Homes Communitie give free ration betwe in hand s & Local advice to have Governmen to our visitor Cross Keys en our a better two organ t Homes s – a good (but not Many usefu isations! Dane Housi bigger!) l contacts Plans are stand for ng were made already hand to 2008. Derby Home Group try to turn and a great s those conta the chanc deal of Drum HA follow-up cts into e to talk membership to collea work is New Zealan Hampshire in gues from applications d. Constabula Northern . We also Harvest Ireland, Peter Jackso ry had Housing the Isle n was invite of Man Group Helena SLCNG/Hous and d to chair Housing a confe emark Toolk rence sessio HouseMark (Housemark it with n on the presentatio ), Peter subject KLEEG Fenn (CLG), ns from McGibbon of the Steve Osbor Sue Roach (Birmingham Mouchel ne (Comm the BASBU Toolkit unity Gatew Parkman ). Some is expec ay) and 130 deleg New Chart ted in Augu Toolkit Ian ates attend er HA has been st 2007 ed. The and a progr New Progr organised SLCNG launc ess HA for the amme h of and House Autumn, of semin Pennine mark. Furthe ars on the which will Housing As a result r detail be jointly 2000 of some Plymouth s appea hosted hard work r on page County had a previe by Council with our 3 of this South Essex w of our edition. web desig new websi September. Homes ners, visitor te – which Sovereign s to the we expec HA stand Our new t to be University version up and of Birmin of Nuisa running The printnce News gham Wales and in run was attracted West HA increased It seeme much favou West Midla by 50% d that hardly rable comm in antici nds Police any deleg pation ent. As alway Whiteheads of the extra ate left s, excell the confe demand. ent netwo Worcester partners, rence witho rking took including Community ut a copy! place with TPAS, CIH, HA Everyone existing Housemark, and poten involved Tribal and with the tial all lookin CSHS. stand was g forwa relieved rd to 2008! to see out the week, but we’re
at
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24
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