Crime reduction

Anti-social behaviour

	What is anti-social behaviour? Anti-social behaviour is an aggressive and destructive activity that intimidates, threatens and causes distress. It damages the life quality of individuals, families and communities. Examples of anti-social behaviour include: rowdy, noisy behaviour 'yobbish' behaviour dealing or buying drugs on the street aggressive begging street drinking setting-off fireworks late at night vandalism, graffiti and fly-posting fly-tipping rubbish street prostitution

	Anti-social behaviour holds back the regeneration of disadvantaged areas - creating an environment that encourages more serious crime. By working closely with communities, local authorities and other key partners, we monitor anti-social activity and take co-ordinated action to stop it. Anti-social behaviour can happen at any time - but it increases during the summer when the nights are longer. We also see a rise in anti-social behaviour during major events like Bonfire Night and Halloween. This Home Office website has resources that has more information on how the different strands of government tackle anti-social behaviour.

	Not all cases of anti-social behaviour involve crime Abandoned vehicles and unkempt gardens are anti-social, but they're not criminal offences. Your local council has a responsibility to resolve some incidents. We work with them – and other partner agencies – as part of our commitment to the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (CDRP).

	What can I do? How you can stop anti-social behaviour How to report anti-social behaviour