Anti-Social Behaviour Support
Supporting Complainants, Victims & Witnesses of Anti-Social Behaviour
We recognise that victims and witnesses of anti-social behaviour and racial harassment may need support whilst complaints are being investigated and throughout any legal action it is necessary to take. Victims can have differing support needs and we seek to support them in a way that is appropriate.
The Trust will:
- Make it clear that anti-social behaviour and racial harassment/harassment will not be tolerated
- Take all complaints of anti-social behaviour seriously
- Deal with persons sympathetically
- Make reporting channels as simple as possible
- Ensure complaints are treated in total confidence where requested to do so
- Seek the persons permission before contacting others
- Keep persons informed of the progress of a complaint
- Discuss and plan each stage of the complaint
- Where necessary complete risk assessments of the victims/witnesses home environment and protection measures (panic buttons, lock changes, etc)
- Use professional witnesses to gather evidence and support a case where appropriate to do so
- In extreme circumstances offering temporary accommodation/permanent move to victims
- Work in partnership with other agencies to support victims and witnesses
- Escort/accompany witnesses to court and provide transport where necessary
- Provide witness liaison officers at court
- Advise parties if we decide to close the case and the reasons for doing so
- Provide ongoing support measures following resolution of legal action or other measures where required
A full copy of the Anti-Social Policy and Procedure is available by contacting any neighbourhood office or Trafford Housing Trust Head Office.