Anti-social behaviour has fallen by 10 per cent across the county according to national statistics released this week.
This means 14,087 less victims from April 2010 – March 2011 when compared to the previous year.
Of course, with impending cuts to police services, it remains to be seen if this downward trend can be maintained, but Lancashire Constabulary has welcomed the figures, praising partner agencies and members of the local community for working with them to address anti-social behaviour.
It has also acknowledged that there is still a lot of work to do.
“Anti-social behaviour takes many forms from rowdy and noisy behaviour in local neighbourhoods to graffiti or fly tipping and violent and threatening behaviour,” notes Chief Superintendant Stuart Williams. “The one thing all of this has in common though, is that it causes residents a great deal of concern and it makes them feel less safe.
“That’s why, here in Lancashire, the police and other partner agencies are putting significant resources into tackling the issue, and making sure victims, particularly vulnerable victims and repeat victims, get the right help and support.
“We have dedicated neighbourhood officers across the county, we regularly use enforcement activity like ASBOs, Closure Orders and arrest, and we work closely with local partner agencies to prevent anti-social behaviour and, where it does happen, find longer term solutions to problems at specific locations or with particular individuals.
“This is all clearly having a positive effect, but we are not complacent and realise that there is more to do.
“Working with partners across the county, and with local communities, it is our firm intention to encourage reporting and to continue to drive down anti-social behaviour still further.”
• Anyone concerned or wanting help with anti-social behaviour can contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 1 25 35 45. Help and advice can be found on www.lancashire.police.uk