Managing Anti-Social Behaviour and Supporting a Vulnerable Tenant
ASB Awareness Week
Day Two
Addressing Initial Complaints
Our involvement began with multiple noise complaints and reports of suspected cannabis use from one of six flats within a residential block. In response to these early warnings, Prima Group took immediate steps to address the anti-social behaviour (ASB) in line with our commitment to maintaining safe and peaceful communities.
Escalation & Disclosure
Despite initial interventions, the complaints continued. This led to the introduction of an Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC) with the tenant involved. However, rather than resolving the situation, it escalated further. At this point, the tenant disclosed they were struggling with a drug addiction.
Recognising the seriousness of the disclosure, we promptly:
Engaged with local support services in Wirral to assist the tenant.
Issued a formal written warning to emphasise the need for change while ensuring the tenant was aware of available support.
Temporary Improvement & Setbacks
Initially, the tenant showed signs of improvement, with a noticeable reduction in ASB as they engaged with the support services provided. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when:
The property’s windows were reported to have been smashed.
Further investigations revealed that the tenant had accumulated a significant drug debt.
It became apparent that local drug dealers were targeting the tenant, putting them at risk.
Collaborative Intervention
With the escalating risk to the tenant and the impact on other residents, Prima Group's Housing Officer took decisive action, bringing together a range of local agencies to coordinate a solution. This included:
Merseyside Police, to address the criminal elements involved.
Housing Options, to explore safe housing alternatives.
The tenant’s personal assistant, who provided additional support.
Achieving Resolution
The collaborative approach resulted in a positive outcome:
The tenant was safely relocated to temporary accommodation, reducing the immediate threat.
The Housing Officer provided continued support to ensure the tenant’s wellbeing.
Eventually, the tenant was placed in supported accommodation better suited to their needs.
Positive Outcomes for All Involved
This case concluded with constructive results for everyone impacted:
Other residents within the block experienced relief from the ongoing ASB.
The tenant was moved to a safer environment where they could focus on recovery.
With the continued support of local services, the tenant received assistance to address their addiction and stabilise their situation.
Key Learnings
This case highlights the importance of:
Swift action in response to ASB complaints to protect the wellbeing of the wider community.
A collaborative, multi-agency approach to address complex issues.
Balancing enforcement with compassionate support, especially for vulnerable individuals.
Flexibility and adaptability in finding sustainable solutions that benefit all parties.
At Prima Group, we remain committed to working closely with partners and communities to ensure safe, supportive environments for all our residents.
Find out more about our approach to ASB here.