Plans to improve how anti-social behaviour is prevented, managed and tackled across North Yorkshire are set to be discussed by councillors.
Anti-social behaviour remains an issue across England and Wales, with about 900,000 incidents reported to police each year, alongside additional reports to councils. Even in relatively safe areas like North Yorkshire, it can put pressure on local services.
Nationally, inspectors have highlighted the need for a clear and consistent approach so the public can feel confident that reports are handled properly.
Our Executive will meet on Tuesday next week (16 June) to consider adopting a new policy for the community safety and CCTV service to deal with anti-social behaviour.
The policy sets out a consistent approach for responding to incidents, supporting victims, and focusing action on the most serious cases. It also brings together different ways of working from former district councils into one system, so residents receive the same level of service wherever they live.
Executive member for corporate services, Cllr Heather Phillips, whose role includes community safety, said: “We should be proud of our record on community safety, but we can’t take it for granted.
“This policy will help us maintain that record while making sure we respond effectively to the issues that matter most to residents. It focuses on early intervention and prevention, while making sure strong action can still be taken when needed, especially to protect victims and deal with the most harmful behaviour.”
Through the our Community Safety Hubs, officers will continue working closely with partners, including North Yorkshire Police, to take targeted action and keep communities safe.
Cllr Phillips added: “This approach will help us act quickly, fairly and consistently, build public confidence, and make sure North Yorkshire remains a safe and welcoming place to live.”
Welcoming the proposal, Chief Inspector Simon Williamson, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “We work closely with North Yorkshire Council to reduce anti-social behaviour in our communities.
“If approved, this framework will provide a clear and consistent way of dealing with anti-social behaviour, supporting the approach we are already taking.”
The report to the executive can be viewed or downloaded as a PDF here.