People in Swindon are being encouraged to continue to report instances of anti-social behaviour (ASB) so Swindon Borough Council and partner agencies can keep tackling the issues in local communities.
More than 1,100 cases of ASB have been handled in the last six months by the Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour and Housing Enforcement teams, as well as Community Safety Wardens, who are funded by a grant from the Wiltshire and Swindon’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
As part of National Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week (18 – 24 November), the Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour officers, Housing Enforcement officers, and Community Safety Wardens are hosting a series of events to highlight anti-social behaviour issues and encourage community reporting. These initiatives aim to directly involve residents, raise awareness of available support, and foster safer, more cohesive communities.
The Council’s commitment to supporting safer communities, with the help of partners as outlined in the Swindon Plan, has led to the launch of a new online reporting system, enabling residents to more easily report ASB affecting their communities or housing tenants.
ASB includes actions that cause nuisance, harassment, or distress to individuals or the wider community. The Council takes a victim-focused approach, using informal interventions such as mediation where possible. For persistent or severe cases, formal measures such as Community Protection Notices and Criminal Behaviour Orders are implemented to maintain safety and order in public spaces.
Council officers also work closely with partner agencies, including the police and health services, to prevent and tackle complex anti-social behaviour cases. In addition to responding to reported issues, they also implement proactive initiatives such as community clean-up projects. This year, efforts have included clearing fly-tipping and graffiti in Broadgreen.
Residents are encouraged to report anti-social behaviour through the Council’s website, helping to ensure Swindon remains a secure and welcoming place for everyone.
Dean Tilling, one of the Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour officers, said: “Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week is a chance to highlight the work we do all-year round to make Swindon a better place to live.
“For us, it’s about building relationships with residents, working together to identify issues, and ensuring they know how to reach out for support. Each case we resolve is another step towards a stronger, safer Swindon.”
Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said: “Our Anti-Social Behaviour officers are a lifeline for many residents who may be facing disruptive or unsafe situations in their neighbourhoods.
“The team’s work not only helps resolve individual cases but also builds a sense of safety and resilience within our communities. Their commitment to Swindon’s residents makes a tangible difference every day.
“We’re asking residents to support their work, by reporting any incidents of anti-social behaviour either directly to the Council or via the relevant agency.”
To report anti-social behaviour, residents can search 'report ASB' on the Council's website.
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