Addressing Antisocial Behaviour: A Call for Improved Police Response in England and Wales

A recent report by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) has shed light on the pressing need for police forces in England and Wales to enhance their approach to identifying, recording, and responding to antisocial behaviour (ASB). This comprehensive assessment highlights the significant impact of ASB on communities and the necessity for a more effective police response.

The Scope of Antisocial Behaviour

In the year ending September 30, 2023, approximately one million incidents of antisocial behaviour were reported to the police, each representing a potential "cry for help" from affected communities. The Metropolitan Police defines ASB as a range of disruptive activities, including rowdy behaviour in public spaces, trespassing, nuisance calls, street drinking, begging, vehicle nuisance, and the inappropriate use or abandonment of vehicles. These incidents, often dismissed as "low-level crime," can have profound effects on the lives of victims and the overall well-being of communities.

The Report’s Findings

The HMICFRS report, which integrates findings from its Police Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Legitimacy (PEEL) programme, force management statements, and input from the College of Policing, emphasizes the need for police forces to adopt a more proactive and data-driven approach to tackling ASB. The report’s key findings reveal that many forces lack a comprehensive understanding of the ASB landscape within their jurisdictions, leading to inconsistent responses and inadequate resource allocation.

Former Scotland Yard Detective Peter Bleksley articulated the frustration felt by many regarding the current state of policing, stating, "The level and quality of police response to this should not be reduced to a postcode lottery, but disgracefully it is." His comments underscore the urgent need for courageous leadership within police forces to address these systemic issues.

The Importance of Data in Tackling ASB

One of the report’s critical recommendations is the use of data to identify the root causes of antisocial behaviour and develop effective, long-term solutions. The HMICFRS emphasizes that without a complete understanding of where and when ASB occurs, police efforts to combat it may be ineffective. The report states, "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."

While some police forces have successfully implemented dashboards and IT systems to facilitate data access, the report highlights that many others struggle with inadequate data collection and analysis. This lack of understanding hampers their ability to respond effectively to ASB incidents.

Challenges Faced by Police Forces

Lee Freeman, His Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary, pointed out that antisocial behaviour is often perceived as a minor issue, which belies the trauma it can inflict on victims. He noted that while there are commendable examples of police efforts, challenges persist, including difficulties in data sharing due to outdated IT systems and a shortage of analytical expertise. Furthermore, inconsistent training and recording practices among officers contribute to the problem.

Freeman stated, "The police must and can do better," urging forces to recognize the importance of effectively identifying, recording, and responding to antisocial behaviour. He emphasized that communities must feel confident in their local police’s ability to address these issues.

Recommendations for Improvement

The HMICFRS report outlines eight recommendations aimed at enhancing police responses to antisocial behaviour. Key suggestions include:

1. Antisocial Behaviour Training: Implementing comprehensive training programs for officers to better understand and address ASB.

2. Mandatory Data Collection: Establishing a standardized process for collecting, analyzing, and publishing data related to ASB incidents.

3. Consistency in Recording: Ensuring uniformity in how incidents are recorded across different forces.

4. Utilization of Statutory Powers: Encouraging the appropriate use of statutory powers available to police forces to take decisive action against repeat offenders.

These recommendations aim to empower police forces to take robust action against the minority of individuals who repeatedly cause harassment and distress within communities.

A Collaborative Approach

The College of Policing has expressed its commitment to addressing the detrimental effects of antisocial behaviour on individuals and communities. In response to the HMICFRS report, the College stated, "Everyone in policing recognizes the detrimental effect of antisocial 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."

Conclusion

The HMICFRS report serves as a crucial wake-up call for police forces across England and Wales to reevaluate their approach to antisocial behaviour. By prioritizing data-driven strategies, enhancing training, and fostering collaboration, police can significantly improve their response to ASB, ultimately restoring confidence in their ability to protect and serve their communities. The time for change is now, and it is imperative that police leadership rises to the challenge, ensuring that no community feels neglected in the face of antisocial behaviour.