Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home and neighbourhood. That’s why we take reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB) seriously and work hard to deal with issues as quickly and effectively as possible.
Our Community Safety Team supports customers who are affected by ASB and works closely with organisations including Lancashire Police and Burnley Borough Council to find the best way forward.
Every situation is different, so we look at each case individually and decide on the most appropriate course of action based on what’s happening and the impact it’s having on those involved. We always try to resolve issues at the earliest opportunity, but we’re also prepared to take stronger action when needed.
When a report is first made, we’ll usually speak to the person involved or write to them to explain the concerns that have been raised. In many cases, making someone aware of the impact their behaviour is having can be enough to bring about a positive change.
If the problems continue, we have a number of options available to help protect the wider community.
Community Protection Warning Notice (CPWN)
A Community Protection Warning Notice, often referred to as a CPWN, is a formal warning issued when someone’s behaviour is having a negative effect on the community.
The warning makes it clear what behaviour needs to stop and explains that further action may be taken if the issues continue. Although Calico cannot issue CPWNs directly, we work closely with partner agencies that can.
Community Protection Notice
This is a notice which is issued and, if breached, a fixed penalty notice will be issued.
Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs)
A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) is a financial penalty that can be issued by the local authority when anti-social behaviour continues despite previous warnings and interventions.
FPNs can be used when someone has failed to address concerns that have already been raised. For some people, receiving a fine is enough to make them stop and think about the impact their behaviour is having on those around them and encourage them to change their actions.
However, that’s not always the case, which is why agencies continue to work together to identify the most effective way of resolving the issue.
ASB Injunctions
An ASB injunction is a court order that can be used to prevent someone from continuing anti-social behaviour.
Depending on the circumstances, it can stop specific behaviours or require someone to take positive steps, such as engaging with support services. Injunctions are designed to prevent situations from escalating and can be used where there is evidence of ongoing anti-social behaviour.
Closure Orders
In the most serious cases, the police or local authority can apply for a Closure Order.
These are typically used where a property is associated with persistent anti-social behaviour, criminal activity or serious nuisance. If granted by the court, a Closure Order can restrict access to a property for a set period of time, providing immediate relief for people living nearby.
Notice of Seeking Possession
A notice of seeking possession is a formal letter from Calico informing you that we are considering taking legal action to regain possession of the property which could result in an eviction.
Ending a tenancy is always a last resort. We only consider this where serious or persistent anti-social behaviour continues and opportunities to address the issues have not been taken.
ASB Case Reviews
If someone feels their ASB case hasn’t improved despite reporting concerns, they have the right to request an ASB Case Review, previously known as the Community Trigger.
The review is requested through Burnley Borough Council and brings together all of the agencies involved in the case. It gives them an opportunity to review what action has already been taken, consider whether anything further can be done and agree the next steps.
It also allows customers to explain how the situation is affecting them and ensures that everyone involved is working towards the same outcome.
Wherever possible, we work with people to help them understand their responsibilities and make positive changes before problems become more serious.
We know reporting ASB can be difficult and the impact it can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s noise nuisance, intimidation, neighbour disputes or more serious concerns, we’ll listen, take reports seriously and work with our partners to find the most appropriate solution.
When it comes to community safety, doing nothing isn’t an option. We’re committed to creating safer, stronger neighbourhoods where people feel safe in their homes.
