Problems with anti-social behaviour

Anti-social behaviour comes in many different forms, from graffiti and fly-posting to drinking in the street, begging, prostitution and intimidation.  Those at the receiving end can be deeply affected, and if left unchecked anti-social behaviour can lead to violence and criminal damage.

Local authorities and Police have the powers to tackle anti-social behaviour.  The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was introduced to provide these agencies with simpler, more effective powers to tackle anti-social behaviour.  Measures include:

• Criminal Behaviour Order: banning a person convicted from certain activities or places, and requiring them to address their behaviour.
• Police Dispersal Power: allowing police to disperse anti-social individuals and provide short-term respite to a local community.
• Community Protection Notice: enabling local authorities and police to stop persistent environmental anti-social behaviour on private land.
• Public Spaces Protection Order: a power which allows a local council to deal with something detrimental to the communities quality of life (i.e.) dog fouling and restricting alcohol consumption
• Closure Power: allows police or local council to close premises
• Absolute Ground for Possession: speeding up the possession processes in cases where anti-social behaviour has already been proven by another court.

Impact on Businesses and the use of Manned Security
Alcohol is often a cause of anti-social behaviour and those involved in the night-time economy, such as pubs, night clubs and casinos will all be aware of the damage that can be done.  They take careful measures to ensure their customers are not affected by or do not behave in such a manner.  Many venues use security guards to protect their customers and staff, and local Councils work with taxi marshals to prevent disturbances on the street.  

Door Supervisors
Door Supervisors are responsible for the safety and security of customers within a licenced premises, such as a pub, club, casino or other entertainment venue.  They monitor those entering the premises ensuring they are suitable; checking ages and behaviours and making sure they are not carrying any illegal substances or weapons.  Once customers are inside the venue, Door Supervisors manage crowds.  They watch out for and deal with any incidents, including anti-social behaviour, and provide assistance in emergencies.

Taxi Marshals
Taxi Marshals work closely with the Licensing Authorities, local Police and other stakeholders such as local businesses and taxi drivers in order to ensure the efficient running of the operation.  They identify potential hotspot areas and diffuse situations to ensure as little disturbance as possible.  Taxi Marshals are trained in conflict management and help to prevent anti-social behaviour from those heading home after a night out.  

There have been studies and reviews of taxi marshal schemes, showing that they reduce anti-social behaviour and violence by more than 60%.

Leisuresec PLC
Leisuresec provide manned guarding, door supervisors and taxi marshals for many organisations involved in the night time economy.  They work with the venue staff, police and other agencies to keep protect customers and staff and ensure all have an enjoyable night out.   

Where the risk assessment indicates we will provide guards with bodycams which helps to deter anti-social behaviour and criminal activity.  The knowledge that they are being recorded often encourages people to moderate their language and actions, and if it doesn’t, the recording can be passed onto the police to use as evidence.

For more information on the services we can provide to protect against anti-social behaviour please get in touch.