The Police and Crime Commissioner David Munro has reiterated his commitment to tackling anti-social behavior (ASB) in Surrey, as the Community Trigger framework supported by his office has seen a significant increase in applications across the county.
Examples of ASB are varied but they can have a profound impact on the welfare of individuals and communities, causing many to feel anxious, afraid or isolated.
The Community Trigger gives those who have complained about a persistent ASB issue in their local area the right to request a review of their case where steps to resolve three or more reports in a six month period have failed to address the problem.
The completion of the Community Trigger form alerts the Community Safety Partnership, made up of local authorities, support services and Surrey Police, to review the case and take coordinated steps to find a more permanent solution.
One community trigger submitted in Guildford outlined the impact of noise nuisance and the inconsiderate use of a communal space. By coming together to assess the situation, the Borough Council, Environmental Health team and Surrey Police were able to advise the tenant to address their use of the space within a clearly defined time period, and to provide a dedicated liaison officer in the case of continued concerns.
Other Community Triggers submitted have included the details of persistent noise complaints and neighbour disputes.
In Surrey, the PCC has provided dedicated funding to Surrey Mediation CIO who support communities in finding a resolution to conflict through mediation. They also listen to and support victims of ASB to develop
strategies and access further guidance.
The Office of the PCC in Surrey also provides a unique reassurance that decisions made as a result of the Community Trigger process can be further reviewed by the PCC.
Sarah Haywood, Community Safety Policy and Commissioning Lead, explained that ASB is often targeted at the most vulnerable in our communities: “Anti-social behaviour can be sustained and remorseless. It can leave people feeling distressed and unsafe in their own homes.
“The Community Trigger process means people have an avenue to escalate their concerns and be heard. In Surrey we are proud that our process is transparent and allows victims a voice. The trigger can be enacted by victims themselves or by someone else on their behalf, bringing together a mix of specialists and dedicated partners to plan a holistic, coordinated response.”
PCC David Munro said: “I am really pleased the latest data shows the Trigger framework is being well used across Surrey, providing reassurance to those affected that we are committed to taking action to tackle those ASB issues that can blight our local communities.”
To learn more about the Community Trigger in Surrey, CLICK HERE