Victims urged to have their say as new anti-social behaviour complaints process unveiled by PCC

HOUSEHOLDS suffering from persistent anti-social behaviour have been offered extra support as Police Commissioner Kim McGuinness launches a new complaints process, with the support of local councils.

The PCC’s office will now oversee complaints to councils regarding ASB cases– a move designed to help to give victims a voice when demanding action.

In practice, the new process means the PCC can now bring together a high-level panel of organisations such as police, councils, housing providers and others to review persistent cases.

Kim McGuinness is urging people to use the new review process and have their say and seek solutions.

The process known as the ‘Community Trigger’ gives people the right to ask for a review of long-term ASB complaints and Kim McGuinness’ office is the first PCC’s office to roll-out the ASB complaints process this way.

As part of her ongoing commitment to improving lives and supporting victims, a dedicated ASB specialist has also been appointed to closely monitor people’s issues and help bring partners together to address the causes and prevent further issues.

In the first instance, any ASB should be reported as normal to either their landlord, council or police. The community trigger should be viewed as a last resort for victims of anti-social behaviour if they believe more needs to be done. They can raise their case for consideration by completing a form on the PCC’s website.

Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Kim McGuinness, said: “No-one should have to put up with ASB over a long period of time and worry that nothing is being done to stop it.

“I want to make sure we are getting the response right and that we are putting victims first; making sure that things are handled efficiently and effectively.

“I see the Community Trigger as a way of empowering victims, particularly our most vulnerable and giving them a chance to be heard. I hope our new way of doing things will build trust and improve the quality of life for long term sufferers of ASB. The police, councils and so on – everyone is on board – everyone wants to help residents and see improvements.”

Councillor Claire Rowntree, Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe without being subjected to anti-social behaviour.

We know that ASB is a real concern for many of our residents which is why we work closely with key partners to protect our communities and tackle ASB where we find it.

“So, we welcome the Community Trigger as an additional means of identifying and tackling persistent cases by bringing key partners together to review and resolve them.”

More information can be found at: https://northumbria-pcc.gov.uk/asb-community-trigger/