MEASURES for tackling anti-social behaviour in Hartlepool are helping to prevent trouble from escalating in the longer-term.

That's the view of Sally Forth, Co-ordinator of the Hartlepool Anti-Social Behaviour Unit, who feels that a combination of low-level interventions and education is paying off.
As a result, she says problems are often resolved before the ultimate sanction, an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO), becomes necessary.

She said: "By recognising unruly behaviour at an early stage we can work with youngsters and their parents to try to find sensible solutions. In the majority of cases, the underlying issues are identified and dealt with and the behaviour stops.

"Using Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs) we draw up voluntary agreements with young people which they agree to stick to. We also educate them as to why their current behaviour may be causing problems for other people.

"Our figures show that we are dealing with more low-level cases and a warning letter is all that sometimes needs to be done for unruly behaviour to be nipped in the bud.

"An ASBO is a last resort, but we will continue to come down hard on people who carry on with unacceptable behaviour."

Last year, the unit dealt with 511 cases of anti-social behaviour, 987 warning letters were sent out, 51 behaviour contracts were signed and 258 referrals were made to support and mediation services.

Funding from the Safer Hartlepool Partnership for youth diversionary schemes and activities has also helped to improve children's behaviour at a young age.

Anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour should contact the Hartlepool Anti-Social Behaviour Unit on (01429) 296588.