Setting the standard for tackling anti-social behaviour and keeping residents safe

This week, a refreshed Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Policy has been approved, shaped by feedback from the public over the past year.

The policy outlines clear standards on how and when the Council will take action to address ASB and reaffirms the Council’s strong commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour as a high priority. Approved by the Executive Cabinet, the policy highlights the Council’s dedication to reducing ASB and improving the quality of life for residents, ensuring their right to live without fear or intimidation.

Anti-social behaviour can seriously affect people’s sense of safety, leaving them feeling vulnerable in their own homes. It covers a wide range of actions that harm others, with the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 defining ASB as behaviour likely to cause alarm, distress, or harassment.

The new policy explains how the Council’s ASB team will support residents, investigate complaints, and use enforcement powers under the law. It also provides clear processes for victims and those accused, ensuring transparency. The policy prioritises victims and witnesses by focusing on thorough investigations and working closely with partners such as Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Rescue Services, Active Tameside, and housing providers to resolve issues.

The Council also continues to invest in community initiatives across the borough using the funding available including school-based projects and programmes with young people, designed to prevent and reduce ASB and its associated fears. These projects raise awareness of the impacts of this behaviour, promote peaceful conflict resolution, and empower communities through funding for initiatives like the Resilient Communities Grant Fund, Neighbourhood Watch groups as well as activities and events.

Tameside Council also operates a 24/7 CCTV Control Room to help prevent and detect crimes like assault, vehicle theft, drug offences, and street crime, while discouraging ASB and helping residents feel safer.

This work will continue to be communicated through public awareness campaigns, promoting tolerance, and providing access to support services for those dealing with incidents.

Councillor Stephen Homer, Executive Member (Towns, Transport and Connectivity), said: “We remain committed to creating safer, stronger communities where everyone can thrive without fear of ASB, and this policy shows our commitment to tackling that behaviour within the powers we have and what we can tackle. We want everyone to feel and be safe so it is really  important that Anti-Social Behaviour is identified, reported and dealt with correctly and I would advise anyone suffering with ASB to report it by phone 0161 342 8355 or email asb@tameside.gov.uk so that that it can be dealt with as soon as possible.”