Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Process

At BeST Housing Association, we are committed to ensuring that all our residents live in a safe, respectful, and supportive community. This document outlines how we manage and respond to reports of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB).

1. What is Anti-Social Behaviour?

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) refers to actions that cause harm, distress or nuisance to others. These behaviours can disrupt lives and negatively affect the quality of life for individuals and the community.

Examples of ASB include:

• Noise disturbances (e.g., loud music, shouting, parties)
• Threatening or abusive behaviour (e.g., verbal abuse, intimidation, violence)
• Vandalism or damage to property
• Drug-related activity
• Environmental issues (e.g., littering, fly-tipping)
• Uncontrolled or nuisance pets

2. Reporting ASB

Residents can report ASB through the following methods:

• Phone: Contact your Housing Officer directly
• Email: Email your Housing Officer
• Online: Use our Anti-social behaviour reporting form
• In person: Speak to your Housing Officer during scheduled visits

When reporting, please include as much detail as possible:

• Dates, times, and location of the incident(s)
• Who was involved
• Any supporting evidence (e.g., photos, videos, statements)

3. How We Handle ASB Reports

Step 1: Acknowledgement

We acknowledge all ASB reports within three working days.

Each case is assessed and assigned a risk level: Low, Medium, or High.

Step 2: Investigation

We gather information from all involved parties: complainants, alleged perpetrators, witnesses, and support providers.

Housing Officers record all information in Podio and, where applicable, coordinate with police, safeguarding teams, and other agencies.

Risk Categories and Timescales:

• Low Risk: Minor disputes – Respond within 14 working days
• Medium Risk: Verbal abuse or intimidation – Respond within 7 working days
• High Risk: Violence, drugs, threats to safety – Respond within 1–3 working days

Step 3: Early Intervention & Support

Housing Officers visit the property within the specified timescales.

Actions may include verbal warnings, mediation, or Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs), which are reviewed regularly.

Step 4: Enforcement Actions

If issues persist, formal tenancy warnings may be issued:

• 1st Written Tenancy Warning
• 2nd Written Tenancy Warning
• Final Tenancy Warning
• Legal action may follow, such as injunctions or possession proceedings (Section 8).

Step 5: Monitoring & Resolution

We follow up with complainants and support staff within 3 weeks.

Cases are monitored and updated monthly on Podio.

Cases are formally closed after review by the Regional Manager.

4. Confidentiality

All ASB reports are handled confidentially. Only Housing Officers have access to the ASB space on Podio.

5. Policy Review

This process is reviewed annually to ensure effectiveness and compliance with relevant legislation and best practices.

For any queries, please contact your Housing Officer or visit our contact page.