Welcome to the Summer Edition of Resolution

By Rebecca Bryant, CEO

As we move into the summer months, I have been reflecting on what has already been an extraordinary year for our sector and for Resolve. From the energy of our National ASB Conference in February to the final moments of our Resolve 30 celebrations, this has been a year defined by partnership, progress and a renewed sense of shared purpose. And now, as we look ahead to ASB Awareness Week 2026, taking place from 29 June to 5 July, that sense of collective momentum feels stronger than ever.

This year’s ASB Awareness Week comes at a pivotal moment. The national landscape is shifting rapidly, and the last quarter alone has brought some of the most significant developments we have seen in years. The Crime and Policing Act, described by government as the biggest crime‑fighting shake‑up in decades, has now become law, introducing more than 70 measures designed to strengthen community policing, protect victims and tackle the full spectrum of criminality.

Among the most notable changes are the new Respect Orders, enabling police to ban persistent ASB offenders from town centres and other locations; the removal of the requirement for a prior warning before seizing vehicles used anti‑socially; and tougher penalties for retail crime, including a bespoke offence for assaulting a retail worker. The Act also introduces a standalone offence of child criminal exploitation, new protections for victims of online stalking, and a criminal offence of cuckooing, recognising the serious harm caused by home takeover.

These developments are reshaping expectations for local areas and strengthening the case for a more consistent, victim‑centred approach to ASB which is something Resolve has championed for three decades. As Secretariat to the APPG on ASB, we have ensured that frontline experience and community insight are informing national conversations at the highest level. Our work with parliamentarians, government departments and national bodies continues to amplify the voices of practitioners and victims, ensuring that policy is grounded in reality, not rhetoric.

This year, our policy recommendations are clearer and more urgent than ever. We are calling for:

• Universal support for victims of ASB
• Action to address delays in the civil justice system
• A national information‑sharing agreement
• The removal of barriers to reporting ASB
• More early intervention and prevention
• Direct funding for Community Safety Partnerships

These priorities reflect what we hear every day from practitioners and communities: that safety, confidence and fairness depend on systems that are accessible, responsive and properly resourced.

ASB Awareness Week 2026 will build on this momentum. Once again, we will be drawing on independent YouGov data to shape our national narrative, ensuring our key asks reflect the lived experience of victims, the pressures on frontline services and the expectations of the public. This significant week long campaign encourages organisations and local partners to reflect on how they work together and explore opportunities to strengthen coordination in tackling the issues affecting their communities.

Across the country, agencies are looking again at how they understand local patterns of ASB, the emerging challenges facing neighbourhoods, and the insights that can help shape more informed and confident responses. By creating space for shared learning and collective thinking, the week supports a more joined‑up approach that recognises the value of collaboration without prescribing any single model or method.

Alongside this, the week highlights the importance of using insight and information more effectively, helping organisations consider how data, intelligence and local experience can support earlier, more proactive action. There is also a renewed emphasis on prevention and community confidence, encouraging partners to think about what helps build safer, more resilient neighbourhoods and how communities themselves can play a role in reducing harm.

This year’s YouGov findings again stress that ASB is not a marginal issue — it is a mainstream public concern affecting safety, confidence and quality of life. They also highlight the need for clearer communication, stronger local action, and a more visible and coordinated national response. Once again, the release of our YouGov report as part of this week‑long campaign informs our key asks and our collaborative nationwide approach to finding solutions that make a real difference to communities.

What continues to inspire me most is the way this sector responds to challenge with determination, compassion and innovation. Our Resolve 30 journey has reminded us of the extraordinary progress made over three decades: from a small collective of practitioners determined to improve responses to ASB, to a national organisation trusted to convene, challenge and champion the sector. That legacy of collaboration remains our greatest strength.

It is also reflected in the partnerships we build. I am delighted to share that ASEL (Argenbright Security Europe Limited) has committed close to £100,000 of its apprenticeship levy to fund 11 new Level 4 apprenticeships for frontline ASB and community safety practitioners across the UK. This is a remarkable investment not only in individuals, but in the long‑term capability of our sector. ASEL has consistently championed the people who keep communities safe, and this latest commitment deepens an already strong partnership. Their support ensures that practitioners can access high‑quality, accredited training without cost to their organisations, strengthening confidence, competence and resilience at a time when demand on frontline services continues to rise.

This investment also speaks to a wider truth: that community safety is not the responsibility of one agency alone. It is built through partnership between housing providers, local authorities, police forces, community organisations, private sector partners and the practitioners who work tirelessly on the frontline. ASB Awareness Week will once again bring that spirit to life. It will be a moment to amplify the voices of victims, celebrate the dedication of frontline teams, and call for the consistency, accountability and support that every community deserves.

As we close the chapter on Resolve 30 and look ahead to the next stage of our journey, I am reminded that our strength has always come from the people who believe in safer communities and fairer outcomes. I am proud of what we have achieved together and even more proud of what we will achieve next.

The policy review

As part of our Resolve 30 anniversary year, we have taken the opportunity to reflect on how anti‑social behaviour (ASB) policy, practice and public expectation have evolved since Resolve was first established. Over three decades, the landscape has shifted dramatically - shaped by political priorities, legislative reform, social change and the growing professionalisation of the community safety sector. This review looks back at that journey, examines the pressures facing practitioners today, and considers the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

This Resolve at 30 report marks 30 years of ASB policy evolution and marks an important moment in our collective journey in community safety. With both policy and practice having changed significantly since Resolve was founded in 1995. Resolve has evolved and grown from a landscape that was previously significantly more reactive, significantly more punitive, and born of a limited understanding of what ASB itself really means. While the sector has evolved considerably, the pressures facing communities have intensified, and we should take stock and reflect on our progress and also consider our future direction.

Anti-social behaviour remains a significant, pertinent challenge despite decades of policy reform and innovation. Rising demand, stretched public services and increasingly complex social issues have shaped the environment in which practitioners work. YouGov data featured in the report highlights how ASB continues to have a strong emotional and practical impact on victims, with many people feeling unsafe in their local area or even considering moving home.

Public perceptions of ASB have also shifted over this period. Issues such as vandalism, drug activity, nuisance behaviour and youth disorder continue to dominate the public consciousness, even when recorded crime data does not always match these perceptions. ASB is, of course, unusual as public perception often carries as much weight as quantifiable reality. This gap between perception and reality continues to act as a persistent challenge for both practitioners and policymakers.

Under New Labour, ASB became a major political priority, leading to the first formal definition of the term and the introduction of tools such as ASBOs. ASB could be considered the lovechild of Tony Blair’s vision of a Britain free from ‘social exclusion’ and the trappings of poverty that are often social as much as they are economic. The coalition government later replaced many of these measures with a new, simplified and focused set of powers intended to simplify enforcement and give local authorities more discretion. Crime overall languished however, the ASB landscape would continue to face new challenges. With the coalition government came austerity, presenting a new challenge of the ‘big society’ to many service providers.

Coming in to the last 5 years, we can see shifts in ASB policy focus including the more recent Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan and the current Labour Government’s safer streets agenda. The ASB Action Plan focused on rapid enforcement and visible consequences, such as hotspot policing and immediate justice schemes. While these approaches have improved public reassurance, they are resource intensive and raise questions about long term impact. The safer streets agenda places ASB within a broader vision of neighbourhood safety, emphasising prevention, partnership working and stronger local accountability.

What does the next phase of ASB policy hold? Well, future progress will depend on investment, coordination and clear leadership across central and local government. New actors have since emerged and will continue to emerge, with the abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners and the assumption of mayors to these responsibilities. Resolve continues to see itself as a key partner in this work, committed to supporting practitioners, strengthening collaboration and ensuring that reforms translate into reality. This anniversary is not only as a moment of reflection but as a launching point for the next thirty years of community safety practice.

To read the full report please click here.

Looking ahead to ASB Awareness Week 2026

As we look ahead to ASB Awareness Week 2026, running from 29 June to 5 July, the sector is already gathering momentum. This year’s campaign is shaped by one of the most comprehensive public studies on ASB in recent years, our national YouGov survey, giving us the clearest picture yet of how communities are experiencing anti‑social behaviour, where confidence is lowest, and what people need from the agencies that serve them.

The evidence is striking. It shows how many people have been victims or witnesses of ASB in the last three years, how frequently they experience it, and the profound impact it has on mental health, feelings of safety and even decisions to move home. It also reveals something deeply concerning: even fewer people are reporting ASB than in previous years. Many victims still do not know how or where to report incidents, while others say they would be more likely to come forward if they could do so anonymously.

These findings echo what practitioners see every day with victims often feeling unsupported, unheard or unsure of their rights. They highlight the barriers that prevent people from seeking help, from fear of reprisals to a belief that nothing will be done. And they show a clear public appetite for clearer communication, more visible local presence, and a more consistent national approach.

This evidence gives us a powerful foundation for the year ahead. It ensures that ASB Awareness Week 2026 is built around the real experiences of communities, not assumptions. It strengthens our conversations with government, regulators and national partners. And it ensures that our key asks are grounded in lived experience, frontline insight and the expectations of the public.

Your Practice Shapes the National Picture

But the strength of ASB Awareness Week has always come from our members. Last year’s campaign demonstrated the creativity, commitment and innovation that define this sector. Housing providers, local authorities, police forces, transport bodies, heritage organisations and community partners all stepped forward with initiatives that reflected the realities of their communities and the values of our profession. From trauma‑informed practice to youth engagement, from heritage protection to early intervention, members showed what it means to lead with purpose and compassion.

This year, we want to build on that momentum and we want to hear from you.

Across the UK, practitioners are already preparing activity for the week. There is a wealth of work taking place every day: the problem‑solving, the partnership building, the creative approaches and the quiet, persistent efforts that make a real difference to people’s lives. Much of this never reaches the spotlight, yet it is exactly the kind of learning that strengthens responses across the country.

That is why we are inviting members to share what they are seeing and doing locally. Your insight helps shape the national narrative and ensures the campaign reflects the realities of frontline work.

We’d love to hear from you:

• How are you marking ASB Awareness Week in your organisation or area?
• Which partnerships are helping you take positive action or what new collaborations are you planning?
• What needs to change locally, and how are you helping to drive that change?

Your experiences, challenges and successes help us build a richer, more accurate picture of ASB across the UK — and they help others learn, adapt and strengthen their own practice.

If you want to stay up-to-date on the week long campaign and how you can get involved please do visit our key resource area by clicking here. You can download the full media kit here as well as the new YouGov survey which will be published at the start of the campaign.

Digital Summit 2026 - get involved

This year’s ASB Awareness Week will be driven by a series of free Digital Summit sessions, each designed to spark national conversation, share best practice, and equip practitioners with the insight they need to make a real difference in their communities.

These sessions are now open for registration and will be delivered live via the Microsoft Teams platform, making them accessible to practitioners, partners and community organisations across the UK. Below you can find a description of the different sessions with a unique booking link for each session.

📅 Monday 29 June – Understanding the ASB Landscape - National Launch & Parliamentary Briefing

We open the week with a sector‑wide briefing on the latest data, trends and challenges, followed by a parliamentary launch setting out the national picture and our key asks for 2026. Perfect for: senior leaders, policy teams, strategic partners.

Register here

📅 Tuesday 30 June – Victims’ Day in partnership with ASB Help

A dedicated session exploring victims’ rights, reporting pathways, the ASB Case Review, and the lived experience of those affected by persistent ASB. Perfect for: victim support teams, caseworkers, community safety officers.

Register here

📅 Wednesday 1 July – Let’s Talk ASB with Neighbourhood Watch

A deep dive into community‑led approaches, neighbourhood confidence, and the role residents play in prevention, reporting and local problem‑solving. Perfect for: community organisations, housing providers, neighbourhood teams.

Register here

📅 Thursday 2 July – Frontline Excellence and Good Practice With Frontline Practitioners

Showcasing innovative practice, case studies and multi‑agency solutions from officers working on the frontline of ASB and community safety. Perfect for: practitioners, operational leads, multi‑agency partners.

Register here

📅 Friday 3 July – Young People & ASB - Prevention, Opportunity & Positive Pathways

A forward‑looking session reframing the narrative around young people, focusing on early intervention, youth voice, positive diversion and the role of opportunity in reducing ASB. Perfect for: youth services, education partners, early‑help teams.

Register here

Why your participation matters

ASB Awareness Week is a national moment but its impact depends on the strength of the sector coming together. By joining these sessions you will have the opportunity to:

1. Hear directly from national experts, frontline practitioners and community voices
2. Gain practical tools and insights to strengthen your local response
3. Contribute to a unified national conversation on prevention, support and accountability
4. Help amplify the rights and options available to victims
5. Play a key role in shaping the sector’s priorities for 2026 and beyond

Don't forget on our ASB Awareness Week resource page you will find banners, logos and selfie packs which are part of the media pack. You can also register for the Digital Summit sessions as well - click here to access all these resources.

Learning best practice from you

As we move towards ASB Awareness Week 2026 and continue strengthening our national narrative, one thing is clearer than ever: the most powerful insights come from you as our members. The work happening across housing providers, local authorities, policing and community safety partnerships is rich, varied and full of learning that deserves to be shared.

Over the coming months, we’re shining a spotlight on member practice across the country. Not just the big initiatives, but the everyday problem‑solving, partnership building and victim‑centred approaches that make a real difference to communities.

To help us capture this, we’ve developed a simple six‑point framework — not a form, but a guide — to help you reflect on the work you’re doing and the learning you’d be willing to share.

Here’s a flavour of what we’ll be exploring together:

• What issues are emerging in your area? Every community faces different pressures — we want to understand the picture on the ground.
• What approaches are you taking? Whether it’s prevention, enforcement, partnership work or something new, your methods matter.
• What impact are you seeing? From victim confidence to reductions in incidents, we want to highlight what’s working.
• What learning could help others? Even small insights can have a big impact when shared across the network.
• What challenges remain? Your reflections help shape our national asks and policy influence.
• What support do you need next? Training, resources, campaigns, guidance — tell us what would make the biggest difference.

These themes will form part of the conversation at your next membership catch‑up, where we’ll be inviting members to share examples, challenges and successes in a supportive, collaborative space.

If you already have a piece of work, a case study or an emerging issue you’d like to talk about, we’d love to hear from you ahead of the session.

Get in touch

Please contact Cath Paul, Membership Officer, to share your interest or arrange a conversation by clicking here.

Putting the spotlight on you - celebrating excellence, innovation and impact across the community safety network

Every day, Resolve members are driving change in communities by tackling anti‑social behaviour, building partnerships, and finding new ways to make people feel safer. Yet behind every initiative are the individuals and teams whose creativity, persistence and compassion make that progress possible.

To shine a light on that work, Resolution is launching a new Resolve case study series, beginning with the winners of this year’s ASB Awards. Each edition will feature stories from across the membership, capturing the reality of practice and the lessons learned along the way. These case studies will celebrate innovation, collaboration and the human side of community safety showing how practitioners turn policy into impact and challenges into change.

Rebecca Bryant, Chief Executive of Resolve, noted, “The ASB Awards are more than a celebration as they are a testament to the dedication, innovation and resilience of practitioners across our sector. These awards shine a spotlight on excellence. This year’s winners embody the very best of community safety. From emerging talent to seasoned leaders, from grassroots projects to strategic partnerships, each of our eight winners demonstrates what is possible when commitment, compassion and professionalism come together.” She continued, “These stories don’t end with the awards themselves as they mark the beginning of a wider conversation about what works, what inspires and what we can learn from one another. Through our new Case Study Series, we’ll be sharing more of these examples across future editions of Resolution, giving members the chance to see the people, partnerships and ideas behind the progress. It’s about celebrating excellence, but also about connecting practice and purpose showing how every success, large or small, contributes to safer, stronger communities.”

1. Outstanding Apprentice - Abigail Marsh

Abigail Marsh’s apprenticeship journey at Runnymede Borough Council is a powerful example of how structured learning, determination and emotional intelligence can accelerate professional growth in the ASB sector. Joining Runnymede Borough Council as an Antisocial Behaviour & Community Safety Officer, Abi quickly demonstrated a maturity and professionalism that set her apart. Her apprenticeship became more than a training pathway — it became a catalyst for deepening her understanding of safeguarding, community engagement and trauma‑informed practice. From the outset, she showed a natural ability to translate theory into meaningful, compassionate frontline work.

One of the clearest demonstrations of Abi’s applied learning came through her work on witness statements. During her apprenticeship, she completed a detailed module on statement‑taking, producing two mock statements based on incident diaries and tutor feedback. This learning translated directly into her operational role: Abi went on to prepare witness statements for live cases, including one used in court during an appeal against a Community Protection Notice. The ruling was upheld and a testament to the accuracy, structure and professionalism of her work. It is rare for an apprentice to contribute evidence of such significance so early in their career.

She brings a calm, reassuring presence to her work with victims and vulnerable individuals, helping people feel heard and supported during some of the most distressing moments of their lives. Colleagues describe her as meticulous, proactive and consistently willing to go the extra mile. Whether offering additional reassurance to a worried resident, liaising with partners to secure timely interventions or ensuring her case files are of the highest standard, Abi approaches every task with care and integrity.

Her impact is also felt in the learning environment. Abi is an active contributor in off‑the‑job training sessions, sharing reflections that help peers connect theory to practice. She has become a role model for what an apprentice can achieve when passion meets opportunity. Her recognition as Outstanding Apprentice is richly deserved — and marks the beginning of what promises to be an exceptional career in community safety.

2. Housing Provider of the Year: Aspire Housing

Aspire Housing’s Neighbourhoods Team has delivered a transformative approach to ASB management, grounded in prevention, partnership and compassion. Operating in communities facing significant deprivation, the team has built a model that prioritises early intervention, tenancy sustainment and resident wellbeing. Their work is characterised by a visible presence on estates, strong relationships with partners and a commitment to resolving issues before they escalate.

Over the past year, the team has sustained 337 tenancies, closed 307 ASB cases and provided 27 homes to victims of domestic abuse. These outcomes reflect a service that understands the complexity of residents’ lives and the importance of stability in preventing further harm. Their 69% resolution rate demonstrates not only operational effectiveness but also the trust they have built with tenants, who feel confident reporting concerns and seeking support.

The team’s approach is rooted in empathy. Officers take time to understand the underlying causes of behaviour, working closely with support agencies to address mental health, addiction, financial hardship and vulnerability. This holistic model ensures that enforcement is used proportionately and only when necessary. Their work has strengthened community cohesion, reduced repeat incidents and improved residents’ sense of safety.

Aspire Housing’s Neighbourhoods Team exemplifies what modern housing‑led ASB practice should look like: person‑centred, evidence‑based and relentlessly focused on improving lives. Their recognition as Housing Provider of the Year reflects not only their achievements but their unwavering commitment to the communities they serve.

3. Exemplary Partnership - Doncaster Council, South Yorkshire Police and Frenchgate Shopping Centre

This Doncaster Youth ASB Partnership is a shining example of what can be achieved when public, private and voluntary sectors come together with a shared purpose. Faced with rising youth‑related ASB in the city centre, partners created a model that blends prevention, engagement and enforcement — all delivered in a space where young people feel safe and supported. The EPIC Youth Hub and Police Hub within Frenchgate Shopping Centre have become central to this approach.

The EPIC Youth Hub offers a welcoming environment where young people can access support, participate in activities and build positive relationships with trusted adults. Over 270 young people have engaged with the hub, with 558 visitor interactions recorded. These numbers reflect not only the scale of the challenge but the success of the partnership in creating a space that young people choose to attend.

Alongside this, the Police Hub provides a visible, reassuring presence in the shopping centre, enabling officers to respond quickly to incidents and build rapport with young people. The partnership’s strength lies in its ability to balance enforcement with support by addressing harmful behaviour while offering pathways to positive change. This dual approach has reduced risk, improved safety and strengthened trust between young people and local services.

The Doncaster Youth ASB Partnership demonstrates how collaboration, creativity and shared responsibility can transform a city centre environment. Their work has delivered measurable impact and created a blueprint for youth‑focused ASB prevention across the country.

4. Police Initiative of the Year - Fusion 8 Community Hub

Fusion 8 (delivered by West Yorkshire Police & Places for People) is a powerful example of community‑led regeneration born from adversity. Following unrest in Harehills, Leeds, West Yorkshire Police and Places for People recognised the need for a safe, inclusive space that could rebuild trust and bring residents together. They transformed a long‑vacant unit into a vibrant community hub and a place where people can access support, share resources and connect with one another.

The hub now hosts a uniform exchange, food bank, community garden and a range of activities that respond directly to local needs. These initiatives have eased financial pressures on families, strengthened community ties and created opportunities for residents to contribute to the space. The hub’s success lies in its ability to adapt — responding to emerging issues and ensuring that the community remains at the heart of decision‑making.

Fusion 8 has also played a vital role in rebuilding trust between residents and the police. Officers are present in the hub not as enforcers but as partners, working alongside residents to address concerns and support community‑led solutions. This shift has improved relationships, increased confidence in local services and reduced tensions in the area.

The project stands as a testament to what can be achieved when organisations listen, collaborate and invest in long‑term community resilience. Fusion 8 is more than a hub as it is a symbol of unity, hope and shared purpose.

5. Practitioner of the Year - Nicholas Bale

For more than a decade, Nicholas Bale has been a driving force behind Derby Homes’ approach to tackling antisocial behaviour. As ASB Manager since 2014, Nick has combined strategic leadership with hands‑on commitment to improving safety, tenant experience and staff wellbeing. His influence can be seen in the evolution of Derby Homes’ ASB service — from pioneering digital tools to embedding customer voice and mentoring future leaders.

Nick’s early adoption of the Noise App in 2015 positioned Derby Homes as one of the first social housing providers to embrace digital noise reporting. This innovation transformed how tenants evidence nuisance and how quickly the organisation can respond. That same year, he introduced a customer satisfaction survey for complainants, embedding tenant voice at the heart of service improvement. Satisfaction has since risen from 82% to 95.6%, placing Derby Homes in the top quartile nationally.

Nick’s leadership extends beyond ASB casework. As the corporate lead for Violence and Aggression, he has championed staff safety, driven policy development and improved reporting systems. His commitment to workforce development is equally impressive as he has played a pivotal role in implementing Derby Homes’ first ASB Apprenticeship, mentoring the apprentice to a Distinction and national recognition.

Nick’s nomination reflects not only the achievements of the past year but a legacy of excellence spanning more than a decade. His dedication, compassion and professionalism have shaped services, nurtured colleagues and strengthened communities. He is a truly deserving Practitioner of the Year.

6. Local Authority of the Year - Northumberland County Council

Northumberland County Council has delivered a county‑wide transformation in ASB prevention and community safety. Their integrated approach of combining Project Shield, the Safe and Resilient Communities framework and a trauma‑informed housing model has produced measurable improvements across multiple localities. Their work is rooted in partnership, data and community empowerment.

Project Shield brings together multi‑agency partners to identify and support individuals at risk of exploitation, criminality or vulnerability. Using a trauma‑informed, early‑intervention model, the project has reduced repeat ASB incidents and safeguarded vulnerable residents. Meanwhile, the Safe and Resilient Communities programme empowers localities to co‑design solutions using the Place Standard Tool, ensuring interventions reflect the lived experience of residents.

The impact has been significant: a 24.2% county‑wide reduction in ASB, a 35% drop in Blyth, a 28% reduction in Ashington and a 25% reduction in Hexham neighbour disputes. Violent crime has also fallen, supported by targeted hotspot interventions and improved public‑space design. These outcomes reflect a service that understands the importance of prevention, partnership and community voice.

Northumberland County Council’s work demonstrates what can be achieved when local authorities commit to long‑term, evidence‑based change. Their recognition as Local Authority of the Year is a testament to their leadership, innovation and unwavering focus on community wellbeing.

7. Best Project - Tigers Trust Youth Engagement Programme

The Tigers Trust Youth Engagement Programme is a standout example of how sport, mentoring and partnership can combine to reduce ASB and build long‑term community resilience. Delivered in partnership with the Humber Violence Prevention Partnership, the programme targets vulnerable young people through 24 weekly sessions and tailored 1:2:1 support.

The programme uses sport as a powerful engagement tool, creating safe, structured environments where young people can build trust, develop life skills and access support. Tigers Trust youth workers — trained in trauma‑informed practice — challenge behaviour, promote informed decision‑making and support personal development. Participants gain essential skills such as teamwork, communication and resilience.

A key strength of the programme is its evidence‑based design. Insights from the Humber VPP’s Strategic Needs Assessment and the Tigers Trust Peer Action Collective — which engaged over 200 young people — shaped the programme’s approach. This youth‑led model ensures that interventions reflect the realities of young people’s lives and respond to emerging risks.

The programme has delivered measurable impact: improved safeguarding outcomes, reduced ASB, increased educational engagement and inspiring personal transformations. The Tigers Trust Youth Engagement Programme is a compelling example of sport‑led prevention at its best as it is strategic, community‑informed and deeply rooted in partnership.

8. Team of the Year - Wakefield Central City East NPT

The Wakefield Central City East Neighbourhood Policing Team has delivered one of the most impressive transformations in local policing. Operating in the district’s most diverse and challenging ward, the team has achieved a 70% reduction in service demand at some of the highest‑risk locations. Their work is defined by genuine community engagement, innovative problem‑solving and relentless operational focus.

Led by Sergeant Catherine Hardwick, the team has delivered a series of high‑impact initiatives. Operation Meritend forged long‑term relationships with previously unreached communities, including asylum seekers and individuals experiencing addiction or mental‑health crisis. Operation Mullside dismantled organised crime activity linked to County Lines. The creation of the Wakefield Faith Forum strengthened community cohesion and coordinated charitable outreach.

The team’s operational results are exceptional: 331 arrests in 12 months, a 43% positive‑outcome rate, zero serious incidents at Marshway House and a 40% reduction in community crime. Their bespoke Engagement Tracker survey — now adopted force‑wide — has transformed how the force gathers community intelligence and shapes local priorities.

The Wakefield Central City East NPT exemplifies the very best of neighbourhood policing: compassionate, proactive and deeply rooted in partnership. Their recognition as Team of the Year is richly deserved.

ASEL backs frontline community safety with funding of significant number of Level 4 Apprenticeships

ASEL focus

Resolve is proud to announce that Argenbright Security Europe Ltd (ASEL) has committed close to £100,000 of its apprenticeship levy to fund 11 new Level 4 apprenticeships for frontline ASB and community safety practitioners across the UK.

This major investment highlights ASEL’s continued commitment to strengthening community safety and supporting the frontline workforce. By ring fencing levy funds to support Resolve’s specialist training, ASEL is helping to build a more skilled, confident and resilient practitioner base at a time when demand on frontline services continues to grow. Their decision to direct levy funding into the sector demonstrates the positive impact that private‑sector leadership can have on public sector capability and community outcomes.

ASEL, who also partnered with Resolve as headline sponsor of Resolve’s National ASB Conference earlier this year in February, have consistently championed the development of the people who keep communities safe. This latest commitment deepens an already strong partnership between the two organisations and sets a new benchmark for cross‑sector collaboration.

The levy transfer will fully fund the training for 11 practitioners, enabling them to gain a nationally recognised Level 4 qualification without cost to their organisations.

Rebecca Bryant OBE, Chief Executive of Resolve, noted, “This is the power of an ongoing partnership in action. ASEL’s commitment to investing in the people who protect our communities is unwavering, and this apprenticeship levy transfer is a powerful example of that. By funding 11 new Level 4 apprenticeships, ASEL is directly strengthening the frontline workforce and helping to build safer, more resilient communities across the country. We are deeply grateful for their leadership, their vision and their belief in the importance of professional development.”

Jacky Ellison, Head of Learning & Development at Resolve, continued, “Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to build long‑term capability in ASB and community safety. They give practitioners the confidence, knowledge and practical tools they need to manage complex cases and support vulnerable people. ASEL’s generous levy transfer means 11 practitioners will now have access to high‑quality, accredited training that may otherwise have been out of reach. This investment will have a lasting impact — not just on the individuals completing the programme, but on the communities they serve.”

ASEL’s commitment to community safety

ASEL represents leaders across security, enforcement and community protection, and has consistently championed:

• Professional development for frontline officers
• Higher standards and accountability across the sector
• Cross‑sector collaboration to improve community outcomes
• Investment in training that strengthens public confidence

Their decision to transfer levy funds reflects a deep commitment to supporting the people and organisations working every day to keep communities safe.

Brendan Musgrove, Managing Director for Guarding at ASEL commented, “Supporting the development of frontline ASB and community safety professionals is essential to creating safer, more resilient communities. Through our partnership with Resolve, we are not only strengthening professional standards across the sector, but also helping to build clear and sustainable career pathways for those working on the front line.

We are particularly proud to be investing our apprenticeship levy into new opportunities that will equip individuals with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to make a real difference in the communities they serve. By supporting these new apprenticeships, we are contributing to a stronger, more capable workforce and ensuring that community safety continues to evolve in line with emerging challenges. This collaboration reflects our commitment to delivering meaningful, long-term impact for both the sector and the communities we protect.”

A model for future collaboration

This partnership demonstrates how levy transfers can unlock vital training opportunities for the public and voluntary sectors. Resolve will continue to work with employers across the UK to ensure levy funds are used to strengthen the national response to ASB and community safety.

To explore the full range of ASEL's solutions please visit their homepage.

Summer Snapshot 2026 - summer patterns and how REACT can help support practitioners

 By Ben Hunt, REACT 

Summer brings a shift in ASB patterns, with rising demand across parks, neighbourhoods and youth‑related hotspots. Here’s a concise look at emerging trends and how the REACT platform can help teams respond with confidence.

Seasonal trends at a glance

Parks & Open Spaces: Higher footfall is driving increases in noise, gatherings, alcohol‑related nuisance and environmental ASB. Joint patrols and visible reassurance remain key.

Youth‑Related ASB: Practitioners are seeing more peer‑group conflict, social‑media‑driven gatherings and demand for diversionary activity. National focus on early intervention continues to shape local responses.

Housing‑Linked Issues: Neighbour disputes, noise complaints and tensions in communal spaces are rising as warmer weather keeps people outdoors longer.

Partnership Working: Police and councils are prioritising hotspot patrols, rapid response models and community reassurance. Nationally, knife‑enabled robberies in key hotspots have fallen by 21%, driven by data‑led policing and stronger partnerships.

How REACT can be a trusted partner to help practitioners manage summer demand

For Case Management Solutions Group Ltd, supporting ASB practitioners is a commitment to safer communities. REACT was built to make frontline work smarter, more connected and more human to deliver services which make an impact. Shaped by the insight and lived experience of housing officers, community safety teams and multi‑agency partners, REACT reduces administrative burden, strengthens case oversight and improves information flow between teams. This is especially vital during summer, when caseloads rise and situations move quickly.

Ben Hunt, Managing Director, explains,““Community safety begins with people and we aim to support the practitioners supporting residents every day and the communities who rely on them. Our responsibility is to give those practitioners the tools and confidence to make informed decisions quickly and consistently. Technology should remove barriers, strengthen communication and help teams focus on what matters most. REACT was designed with that purpose at its core.”

REACT exists to empower practitioners enhancing their judgement, supporting consistent decision‑making and helping residents feel heard.

Championing practitioners during ASB Awareness Week and beyond

Our commitment to community safety extends beyond software. We believe in recognising the people who make a difference every day: the practitioners who hold complex cases, support vulnerable residents, navigate risk and build trust where it is needed most.

Their work is demanding, often unseen, and absolutely vital. REACT exists to empower them. We are not replacing their judgement, but enhance their ability to act quickly, consistently and with confidence.

As ASB Awareness Week approaches, CMS Group Ltd is proud to reaffirm its dedication to the sector. We will continue investing in digital innovation that strengthens frontline practice, improves outcomes for residents and supports organisations in delivering the highest standards of care.

Because safer communities are built through strong relationships, skilled practitioners and the right tools in the hands of the people who use them every day.

As ASB Awareness Week approaches, we once again reaffirm our commitment to digital innovation that strengthens frontline practice and improves outcomes for communities. To learn more about implementing modern ASB reporting and case management solutions in your organisation, visit cmsg.uk.com, or contact Ben Hunt at ben.hunt@cmsg.uk.com.

Handling ASB with Care - Lessons from the Ombudsman’s Casework

By Mark Lawrence, Communications Manager, Housing Ombudsman

Anti-social behaviour (ASB) cases can be some of the hardest that we deal with as a service. This is not just because of the nature of the cases, but also the challenges that effect resolution.

Landlords find themselves in a challenging role too. They are often engaging residents who are both experiencing ASB, as well as those who are alleged to have perpetrated it.

I know there are many of landlords who have had to deal with extreme circumstances within these cases. The dedicated professionalism of these teams cannot be underestimated or undervalued.

There is much to learn from our casework, both where we see failings but also where we see no maladministration.

The foundations of effective case handling matter for ASB cases, as they do for other services we see. These are namely good communication, clear records and a focus on individual circumstances.

This communication should be harm-focused.

Early expectation management with residents is important and sets the tone for the relationship. In too many cases we see residents who are left in limbo. They are filling in diary sheets without any clarity on what actions will be taken as a result.

Using the tools available is equally important for effective ASB handling. Risk assessments, action plans, and routes of escalation are vital.

And this final point links to another key area, effective multi-agency working. For local authority landlords, this should be easier given the institutional arrangement. But we know this does not always happen. For housing associations, especially those working across several local authority areas, building up these relationships is important. Where they are or are not built is evident in our casework.

Partnership means bodies doing what they say they will do, being clear on commitments and responsibilities, and sharing timely information.

We are also increasingly seeing ASB interlinked in other landlord responsibilities. This could be domestic violence, repairs or hate crime. This may require coordination across teams and revising policies to support effective decision making. Distinguishing between these issues too can be important to reach a resolution. This has been particularly evident in our hate crime casework.

It is important to recognise when to escalate an issue. If something is not working, it may be necessary to engage others. This includes where the complaint may have strayed into the landlord’s handling of the issues. The case review tool is also underused.

The latest policing and crime legislation provides more powers to handle ASB for social landlords. There is much good practice in the sector, and we routinely share this when we publish our no maladministration decisions. There are also some clear areas for learning and using these new powers will help improve outcomes for residents.

To find out more about the Housing Ombudsman Service please click here.

Hearsay revisited in Housing ASB court claims

By Joe Warren, Partner at Cobb Warren

It has been 22 years since the case of Solon South West Housing Association v James [2004]. This case is the ‘go to’ case on the use of hearsay evidence in ASB claims (our own Rebecca Cobb represented Solon).

In relation to the use of hearsay in civil proceedings your first port of call always being Section 4 of Civil Evidence Act 1995. It sets out the factors for a Judge to consider and the weight to be given to hearsay evidence.

Next is the case of Solon v James, it was an ASB claim where, at first instance, the Judge made a possession order for ASB based on both oral and hearsay evidence. The defendants appealed, arguing no reason had been given for witnesses not attending trial.

The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal. The reason for the non-attendance was the neighbours’ fear of reprisals. The judge was entitled to consider this – particularly as the hearsay evidence was consistent with the ‘live’ evidence.

Then, there’s the case of Incommunities v Boyd [2013]. Giving further guidance on anonymised hearsay evidence, the Court of Appeal held the judge had acted properly. His reasons were clear. They included the defendant’s intimidating behaviour, his history of criminal convictions and the fact that witness statements came from three different households who did not know each other – so there was no collusion.

Most recently in the case of The Co-operative Development Society Ltd v XXX [2025], a housing association sought possession on the grounds of ASB. The defendant had been convicted in the Magistrates’ Court of seven breaches of a noise abatement notice. The landlord relied on hearsay evidence, claiming neighbours were too intimidated to attend court.

The judge was not impressed and said that the landlord had not adequately explained why it was relying on hearsay, it could have provided anonymised statements and the officer’s statement didn’t mention threats.

Key points to remember

1. It’s always a balancing exercise. But the more serious the ASB, the more compelling it’s likely to be that neighbours are fearful of reprisals.

2. Corroboration is key. Hearsay will need to be accompanied by first-hand evidence, such as other witnesses attending trial, police witnesses, CCTV or noise recordings.

3. Serving hearsay notices: Clearly explain why a witness won’t attend trial or wishes to remain anonymous. And confirm whether the witness knows any others giving evidence. This will help rebut any suggestion of collusion.

About Cobb Warren - Cobb Warren is a specialist legal practice focusing solely on housing management and property litigation - find out more by clicking here.

Admissibility of Anonymous Witness Statements in Civil ASB Cases

By Navya Joginipally, Swinburne Maddison

Anti-social behaviour (“ASB”) cases remain one of the most challenging areas of civil proceedings. Noise nuisance, intimidation, harassment, vandalism, drug activity and threatening conduct can have a serious impact on local communities. However, many victims and residents are reluctant to come forward due to fear of retaliation.

This raises an important question. What are anonymous witness statements, are they admissible, and how much weight do they carry?

Anonymous witness statements are a practical response to the real risks associated with ASB enforcement. In these statements, the identity of the witness is withheld, and they are typically used where disclosure of identity would place the witness at risk or cause serious prejudice. However, anonymous evidence remains controversial, as one of the fundamental principles of justice is that a defendant should have an opportunity to challenge the evidence against them.

The Court of Appeal confirmed in Boyd v Incommunities Ltd that anonymity does not automatically render evidence inadmissible, but it will usually affect the weight attached to it. Anonymous evidence is generally treated as hearsay, as the witness does not attend court for cross-examination. There are several authorities confirming that such evidence may still be admissible, including:

• In Moat Housing Group-South Ltd v Harris, the Court of Appeal confirmed that anonymous evidence can be admitted in ASB and possession proceedings, subject to careful scrutiny and fairness.
• In Boyd v Incommunities Ltd, the court confirmed that hearsay evidence is admissible in ASB and housing cases where witnesses genuinely fear reprisals. However, its weight must be assessed cautiously under section 4 of the Civil Evidence Act 1995, considering fairness, reliability, and the defendant’s Article 6 right to a fair hearing.
• In Welsh v Stokes, it was emphasised that untested hearsay evidence may still be relied upon, but courts must evaluate its credibility with caution.
• In Co-operative Development Society Limited v X, represented by the Official Solicitor, a recent County Court decision, the court held that hearsay evidence is admissible subject to the factors set out in section 4(2) of the Civil Evidence Act 1995.

Practical tips for drafting anonymous witness statements

An anonymous witness statement should still comply with the requirements of CPR Part 32. In addition, it should clearly explain why anonymity is required, and a confidential unredacted version should be prepared for the court. The statement should also confirm that the witness understands their duty to tell the truth despite anonymity.

Where possible, corroborating evidence should also be provided, such as evidence from independent witnesses, the police, or housing officers, to strengthen its weight. A bare assertion that “the witness fears reprisals” is increasingly considered insufficient on its own.

In Co-operative Development Society Limited v X, represented by the Official Solicitor [2025], the only evidence on behalf of the claimant was a housing officer’s statement containing hearsay reports from neighbours. The court noted that no neighbours were called to give oral evidence and that no adequate explanation had been provided for reliance on hearsay or for the failure to provide anonymised witness statements from residents. The court also highlighted the absence of explanation as to why affected residents were unwilling to be identified or give oral evidence.

Conclusion

Parties should therefore carefully consider providing anonymised witness evidence, rather than relying solely on untested hearsay or providing no direct evidence at all. When prepared properly and supported by corroborative material, anonymous witness statements can play a valuable role in ASB proceedings, while still ensuring fairness to all parties.

For more information or advice on anti-social behaviour proceedings or the use of anonymous witness evidence, please contact Navya Joginipally on navya.joginipally@swinburnemaddison.co.uk or visit www.swinburnemaddison.co.uk.