Operational partnerships - Anti-social behaviour policy (O35)

1. Summary of changes

1.1. This policy has been reviewed in February 2022. No changes have been made.

2. What this policy is about

2.1. The purpose of this policy is to provide direction on the subject of anti-social behaviour (ASB) as per the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and to highlight available tools for managing dealing and resolving issues of ASB. 

Compliance with this policy and any linked procedure is mandatory.

3. Statement of policy

3.1. Kent Police recognises the need to tackle both the harm caused by anti-social behaviour and the perceptions surrounding this emotive issue.   

3.2. There is a need to focus on the social harm and adverse impact that ASB can have on individuals, groups and communities. By ensuring that our policing response is able to meet local needs and by acting quickly to disrupt and stop ASB, we can be more effective in reducing harm to victims, particularly those who are repeat and/or vulnerable victims by using an enhanced service. There are a number of tools available across the multi-agency community safety landscape. These can be found on the hyperlinks which are attached to this policy.  

4. Implications of the policy

4.1. Finance/staffing/training/other

• this policy is aimed at primarily those police officers, PCSOs and police staff working within the Neighbourhood Policing, Community Safety Units, etc.
• there is a requirement that all skills are maintained in respect of ASB and any subsequent changes in legislation and/or policy

4.2. Equality Impact Assessment (EIA)

This policy has been assessed with regards to its race and diversity equality. As a result of this assessment the policy has been graded as having a medium potential impact.

5. Consultation

5.1. This policy has been reviewed in conjunction with the Neighbourhood teams, including PCSOs who are the front-line resources in dealing with ASB and the community safety units who manage ASB and the administration of the various tools and powers available. Master classes were held which included police, KCC and district councils.

5.2. The policy has also been reviewed against the requirements of the Kent & Medway Multi-Agency ASB Strategy to ensure that it is cognisant of partnership working and processes. Master classes were held partner agencies, including KCC and district councils September to November 2014.

6. Monitoring and review

6.1.This policy will be reviewed annually by the ASB professional lead within Partnerships and Communities department.

The overarching requirements within ASB will be managed at the ASB and Victim Satisfaction Gold Group, chaired by Assistant Chief Constable, Local Policing and Partnerships.

6.2. This policy is next scheduled for review in February 2024.

7. Security

7.1. Kent Police have measures in place to protect the security of your data in accordance with our Information Management policy.

8. Retention and disposal of records

8.1. Kent Police will hold data in accordance with our Records Review, Retention and Disposal policy.