A new report by HMICFRS spotlights how police in England and Wales need to improve how they identify, record and respond to antisocial behaviour, as well as how they protect victims.
The report brings together findings from HMICFRS’s police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy (PEEL) programme, force management statements and a request for promising practice from the College of Policing to all forces in England and Wales.
In the year ending September 30, 2023, about one million antisocial behaviour incidents were reported to the police, with each signifying a potential “cry for help” from communities.
According to the Metropolitan Police, some examples of anti-social behaviour include rowdy or inconsiderate behaviour in public places, trespassing, nuisance calls, street drinking, begging, vehicle nuisance or inappropriate use or vehicle abandonment.
While antisocial behaviour is often perceived as a “low-level crime” by the police, this attitude does not reflect the “significant impact” it has on communities and on victim’s lives.
Commenting on the report, former Scotland Yard Detective Peter Bleksley said: “Anti-social behaviour blights millions of lives.
“The level and quality of police response to this should not be reduced to a postcode lottery, but disgracefully it is. When will policing get quality, courageous leadership, instead of the current dross?”
One of the report’s recommendations was to use data to uncover the main causes of antisocial behaviour and problem-solve to find lasting solutions.
The report says: “Without a full picture of what is happening, and where and when it is happening, there is a risk the approach to tackling antisocial behaviour will be ineffective.
“Good quality data and data analysis mean forces and other organisations can plan interventions effectively, allocate the right resources and fully evaluate the effectiveness of their actions.”
The watchdog was “encouraged” to find that some forces make good use of dashboards and IT systems, so that their personnel and external organisations can access relevant data and information.
However, it found too many forces didn’t understand the level of antisocial behaviour in their force area and were poorer at collecting, analysis and using data.
His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary Lee Freeman said: “Antisocial behaviour is a blight on many in our communities. It is sometimes perceived, and referred to, as low-level crime by the police, public and media. However, this doesn’t reflect the profound impact and trauma it can have on victims.
“While there are good examples of the police working hard, there are challenges faced, including difficulties sharing data due to inadequate IT systems and a lack of analytical expertise.
“Additionally, there can be inconsistent approaches by forces, whether through poor training of officers, limited recording of incidents and the evaluation of outcomes.
LATEST FROM MEMBERSHIP:
- 'Starmer's second 100 days must go better - the answer may be in what Tony Blair would have done differently'
- Michelle Dewberry sends special birthday message and thanks to well-wishers: 'Growing old is a privilege!'
- 'He's telling the TRUTH!' Ex-criminal backs suspended police chairman in race row
“The police must and can do better. In my recommendations, I urge forces to recognise the importance of how they and their partners identify, record and respond to antisocial behaviour. Our communities must feel confident their local force will tackle it effectively.”
In total, HMICFRS has made eight recommendations to police forces including antisocial behaviour training and a mandatory process for collecting, analysing and publishing data.
The inspectorate said there needs to be greater consistency in recording of incidents, as well as in the use of statutory powers available to forces and appropriate training provided.
This could enable forces to take robust action against the minority of people repeatedly causing harassment and distress.
The College of Policing responded to the report stating: “Everyone in policing recognises the detrimental effect of anti-social behaviour on individuals and communities.
"We therefore welcome this report and are determined the College will continue to play a leading part in improving the police response to this issue.”
Find Out More...
