Police recorded more than one million anti-social behaviour (ASB) incidents across England and Wales in the past 12 months, according to figures from the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC). In response, forces are implementing a nationwide crackdown under the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee (NPG), with dedicated senior officers now appointed in all 43 police forces to tackle the issue.
Impact on communities
Millions of people report ASB to police each year, stating it makes them feel unsafe in their own homes and towns. The problem has been linked to negative mental health effects, lost work days, and even forced relocation. Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Catherine Akehurst, NPCC lead for ASB, said: “What may seem low level to some can, for others, undermine their sense of safety, erode pride in their neighbourhoods, and diminish overall quality of life.”
Success stories
Dedicated operations targeting town centres, street drinking, and e-scooters have yielded significant reductions. In Horden, County Durham, reported ASB fell by 35% over the last year, partly due to improved police visibility and technology. In Leamington, violence and ASB dropped by 90% through increased enforcement and youth engagement initiatives.
National ASB awareness week
As part of national ASB awareness week (29 June to 5 July), led by Resolve, police forces across the UK are taking further action. T/DCC Akehurst emphasised: “It can isolate people, damage community cohesion, and weaken the trust that the public places in policing and partner agencies.”
New powers and partnerships
Under the Crime and Policing Act 2026, police will gain tougher powers, including new ‘Respect Orders’ for swift enforcement against prolific offenders. The NPG, announced in April 2025, has already led to the publication of ASB action plans on force websites. Akehurst added: “ASB is not something policing can tackle alone… The public and all partner agencies must work together.”
