We Just Want to Feel Comfortable Where We Live

We Just Want to Feel Comfortable Where We Live

We have lived here for nearly six years and, for most of that time, it has been fine.

Over the last year things have changed.

There are groups hanging around late at night, shouting, kicking bins over and sometimes throwing things into people’s gardens. There have been smashed bottles outside and damage to cars. A few times people have knocked on doors and run off in the early hours.

None of it sounds massive on its own.

That is part of the problem.

When you explain it to someone, it can sound like a few teenagers messing about or neighbours being annoyed by noise. But when it happens again and again, it changes how you feel about where you live.

My youngest used to play outside until tea time. Now I call him in earlier.

If I hear shouting outside, I look through the curtains before I open the door.

My husband works nights, so when he is not here I notice every noise more.

We have reported things, and I know the police and council cannot be everywhere at once. I also do not want every young person hanging around to be treated like a criminal, because most of them probably are not.

But there has to be a point where people living here are listened to as well.

The biggest thing for me is that antisocial behaviour does not just damage a fence or keep someone awake.

It changes how people use their own neighbourhood.

You stop sitting outside.

You stop letting the kids stay out as long.

You start avoiding certain streets.

You think twice before challenging someone because you do not know how they will react.

Home is supposed to be the place where you relax.

I do not want anyone locked up for making noise.

I just want us to feel comfortable where we live again.

Rachel

If antisocial behaviour is affecting where you live

You do not have to put up with repeated antisocial behaviour.

Keep a simple record of what is happening, including dates, times, locations and any damage or intimidation. Photos or video can also help where it is safe and lawful to take them.

You can report persistent antisocial behaviour to your local council, housing provider or landlord, and to the police where criminal behaviour, threats, harassment or immediate risk are involved.

If repeated reports do not lead to action, you may be able to request an ASB Case Review, sometimes called the Community Trigger. This allows agencies to review how persistent antisocial behaviour has been handled.

If someone is in immediate danger or a crime is happening now, call 999. For non-emergencies, use 101 or report online.

You can also contact Victim Support for independent help and advice if the behaviour is making you feel unsafe or distressed.