How we are tackling anti-social behaviour through community collaboration

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Awareness Week (30 June – 6 July) presented a valuable opportunity to spotlight the real and lasting impact that strong partnerships can have on creating safer, more harmonious neighbourhoods. 

At Mount Green Housing Association, our work during ASB Week showcased the value of collaboration – not only with residents but also with local authorities, police forces and specialist organisations.

This year, we took to the ground – literally. Our teams conducted in-person walkabouts on 4 July, alongside Surrey Police officers and members of Mole Valley District Council’s joint enforcement team. These visits were active listening sessions, where residents could openly share any concerns and feedback. The power of being visible within the community can’t be overstated – residents see us, recognise us and feel reassured that their voices matter.

Mount Green has consistently taken a partnership-first approach when tackling ASB. 

“When it comes to resolving ASB issues, a solely internal, singular strategy will fail to comprehensively deal with and settle disputes”

Whether it’s a suspected drugs issue, neighbour disputes or more serious behaviour patterns, our response is rarely solitary. We routinely co-ordinate joint visits and door knocks with police teams across Surrey and Sussex, working together to determine which organisation, or organisations, should take the lead and understanding how best to resolve the issue. 

All of our neighbourhood officers receive updated training, including around drug-related offences, which means we’ve built a joined-up, knowledgeable response network.

Importantly, not every issue raised by residents qualifies as ASB. In fact, a significant proportion of concerns fall under what we call our ‘Good Neighbourhood’ remit – such as noise from children playing, doors banging or car engines running. These instances, while disruptive, often require a more nuanced response. 

We encourage residents to resolve such matters amicably – perhaps by posting a concern card or having a conversation – and when needed, we can refer cases to Mediation Surrey, which offers conflict resolution and coaching services to Mount Green residents.

Our Good Neighbourhood Toolkit has proven a particularly valuable resource in these types of situations. It provides residents with practical guidance on approaching their neighbours, helps to manage expectations and encourages mutual respect. It empowers residents with the confidence to address minor issues early, which helps prevent escalation, while reinforcing community cohesion.

ASB Awareness Week also allowed us to build internal capacity. All our neighbourhood officers participated in issue-specific webinars and training sessions on topics including ASB case management, how to use legal tools such as closure and respect orders, and emerging concerns such as drug misuse. We’re committed to ongoing, practical learning – and that investment pays dividends on the ground.

At Mount Green, each neighbourhood officer manages a defined geographical patch. This model allows for continuity, accountability and relationship-building between residents and Mount Green team members. 

“Personal connection is something we take great pride in, especially when compared with more transactional approaches at other organisations”

Residents know exactly who to go to, as our neighbourhood officers undertake regular estate visits, and they feel confident that their concerns will be taken seriously. That personal connection is something we take great pride in, especially when compared with more transactional approaches at other organisations, where residents might not speak to the same person twice when making an enquiry or reporting an issue.

As we reflect on ASB Awareness Week, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made, but we also see it as a springboard. Our visibility in communities, our ongoing collaboration with partners, and our commitment to early intervention form the backbone of our ASB approach. 

It’s important for housing associations to implement a multifaceted approach when dealing with ASB, in both proactive and reactive situations. When it comes to resolving ASB issues, a solely internal, singular strategy will fail to comprehensively deal with and settle disputes. All housing organisations should engage with and use relationships with relevant local partners, to ensure they cover all bases necessary.

Ultimately, it’s about being proactive, approachable and present. We want residents not just to live in Mount Green homes, but to thrive in them – free from the disruption and distress that ASB can cause. 

Christine Wytiahlowsky, neighbourhood services manager, Mount Green Housing Association