In October, we successfully obtained a legal injunction* against a resident following a series of serious anti-social behaviour (ASB) incidents. These included threats towards residents, contractors, and carers working in a nearby elderly care scheme, as well as deliberate damage to property — including the destruction of CCTV cameras.  

This outcome was only possible thanks to strong cross-team collaboration between our Neighbourhood Housing Manager and Community Safety team, alongside support from staff in neighbouring organisations. Their witness statements were crucial in building a strong legal case.  

The importance of evidence 

Jesse Fuller, Town & Country Housing’s Community Safety Team Manager, explained that without statements from residents or other organisations, we are often unable to take cases to court.  

“We understand that reporting ASB can feel daunting, especially when residents fear retaliation, but we’re here to help you feel safe and supported through the process,” he said.  

“Courts require detailed, factual accounts to issue injunctions or possession notices, and without evidence from residents or local organisations, as in this case, we’re limited in what action we can take.” 

Tackling all types of ASB  

Many people think that only high-level ASB can be investigated, which is not the case. Persistent unreasonable noise issues, ongoing nuisance behaviour or other low-level ASB can be addressed legally, provided we have the right evidence. 

Diary sheets are one of the most effective tools. They help us track patterns, understand impact, and present credible evidence. While they may seem tedious, they are often the difference between action and inaction. 

Keeping you updated  

Once we start to investigate a case we will give residents updates where we can, but in many cases it won’t be possible to give specific information. Investigations often involve personal information about the alleged perpetrator and possibly other witnesses.  

Sharing these details could breach GDPR or other privacy laws. It could also put individuals at risk of retaliation or harassment, or compromise evidence gathering.  

Please be assured that if you are told there’s no update or investigations are ongoing it doesn’t mean nothing is happening, it just means that we’re unable to share specific information at that stage.  

Support to report 

If you’re unsure how to report ASB or need support completing diary sheets, please contact us. Together, we can make a difference. 

For more information, visit https://tch.org.uk/community-safety-and-antisocial-behaviour/. 

*A legal injunction is a final court order that legally prohibits a person from engaging in specific behaviours, typically harassment, intimidation, or any conduct that causes distress, alarm, or fear.