KIRKLESS: Action to tackle troublemakers

Action to tackle troublemakers

A HARD-hitting programme which tackles the causes and consequences of anti-social behaviour is set to make a difference in Kirklees.

The Respect action plan has now been officially adopted by Kirklees Council in partnership with other agencies.

It emphasises strong multi-agency working; a twin-track approach of support to foster good behaviour and tougher enforcement measures to tackle the worst behaviour; early intervention before problems
escalate; building community confidence to report incidents; and communicating with residents on action taken.

Schemes under way as part of the programme include the use of new enforcement tools and powers such as parenting orders and individual support orders.

A parents' support group and a family intervention project have been established to troubleshoot problems before they escalate.

Communities will be consulted more closely, with plans for leaflets and newsletters to update them on action taken in their areas.

Additionally, the introduction of "resident perception" questionnaires, for both adults and young people, is being proposed for distribution during the police-led Focus Operations, which take place every month across Kirklees in anti-social behaviour hotspots.

Coun Khizar Iqbal, chairman of Kirklees Safer Communities Partnership, said: "Most people in Kirklees are decent, law abiding citizens. But the very small minority of people who cause problems create misery for their neighbours and communities.

"The council and its partner agencies are committed to confronting anti-social behaviour head-on so that residents feel safe and live free from harassment and distress.

"We are now moving forward by implementing the Respect action plan, which builds on the good work already being done in Kirklees and provides extra impetus to make a real difference."

Bill Swap, Kirklees anti-social behaviour co-ordinator, added: "Everyone – from agencies working on the frontline to members of the public – has a responsibility to tackle and eliminate anti-social behaviour.

"We are developing stronger links with communities and listening to
their concerns.

"Tough measures are being taken against those who persistently disrupt our neighbourhoods and support is being offered, where appropriate, to deal with matters before they get out of hand."

Progress in tackling anti-social behaviour will be measured by neighbourhood crime and anti-social behaviour statistics, and analysis of the monthly questionnaires, and performance will be scrutinised through case reviews.

The move follows Kirklees being accredited as one of
40 Respect Areas nationally by the Home Office earlier this year.

Kirklees received Respect Area status in January as part of the Government's Respect Action Plan.

It seeks to broaden and widen the clampdown on anti-social behaviour to tackle causes in the home, the classroom and the community, and address a wider culture of disrespect in society by offering support to local people and services.

http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/localnews/Action-to-tackle-troublemakers.3246359.jp