How to report antisocial behaviour

Today, we are launching a campaign to raise awareness of how to report antisocial behaviour and the support available to victims from organisations, including Lincolnshire Police, who work together to keep communities safe.

Antisocial behaviour, sometimes perceived as trivial, but actually defined as “conduct that has caused, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm, or distress to any person.” We know that harassment, alarm and distress do not feel “trivial” to the person affected.Chief Inspector Fran Harrod, of the Safer Together Partnership, said, “Lincolnshire is a safe county, with comparatively low levels of anti-social behaviour – this is no consolation if it affects you. It can be seen as “low level” in comparison with some other things we deal with, but we know the impact on people and communities and it can diminish feelings of safety and quality of life. Everyone has the right to live without fear of facing anti-social behaviour.

Antisocial behaviour includes many categories such as misuse of fireworks, disputes with neighbours, nuisance noise, nuisance animals, vehicles, unwanted calls or visits, littering and fly tipping. Chief Insp Harrod explained, “The range of behaviours that are anti-social is broad and there are a number of organsations that play a part in addressing those behaviours.  The Safer Lincolnshire Partnership Anti-Social Behaviour Core Priority Group gathers all partners together to look at areas that cause the most concern, for example implementing a new approach to addressing the noxious odours associated with domestic cannabis consumption. This campaign is about making sure that people know who to go to and how to report antisocial behaviour. It may be us, local council or a registered housing provider who deal with your issue, and we don’t want not knowing who to go to being a barrier for anyone who is suffering.”

Whatever issue you are facing, you can find out who can help in the information pages on our website. Here you can find out who deals with what. If it’s an issue for Lincolnshire Police, you will be able to submit a report online. If not, you will be directed to the right channel. Visit our dedicated antisocial behaviour section to find out more. 

This campaign is also about highlighting the support for victims of anti-social behaviour. There is support regardless of if you decide to report the issue. Chief Insp Harrod said, “People should not have to suffer in silence. There are lots of channels of support that we want everyone to know about. Victim Lincs have amazing people doing amazing work and can signpost you to get help. They are empathetic and understanding and will never feel that you are wasting their time. It’s what they are there for.”

Find out about the support organisations available here. 

Frustratingly for victims, sometimes antisocial behaviour does not have a quick or easy fix. It can be complicated and ingrained. Where you have had an issue that has been reported three or more times in the last six months, and it’s not been resolved, you have the right to request an anti-social behaviour case review through your local council. Find out more about antisocial behaviour case reviews here.