Multi-agency approach to tackle Brockwell anti-social behaviour

Following repeated complaints of anti-social behaviour (ASB) around the Brockwell Centre in Cramlington a local councillor instigated a ‘Community Trigger’.

 

Cllr Wayne Daley said “I initiated the ‘Community Trigger’ as it gives people the right to ask for a multi-agency review of long-term ASB. Local residents need to be heard and I consider this process as a way of empowering them. This was the first meeting of its type in Northumberland and everyone there was fully committed to tackling ASB, understood the issues at Brockwell and recognised the demoralising effect it has on victims.”

 

Where at least 3 qualifying complaints have been made, the Community Trigger requires relevant agencies, such as the council and the police to undertake a case review.

Representatives of the Town and County Councils, the Police, Fire and Rescue Service and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, met earlier this week to discuss the issues and possible actions.

The group considered evidence from local retailers and residents and recommended a range of actions:

• Improved CCTV and lighting around the centre
• Setting up a “shop watch” scheme to allow retailers to work together and provide mutual support, including a ban on the sale of some products to under 18’s
• Redesign of the centre to overcome key “blind spots” and playing music chosen to discourage from overstaying their welcome at the centre!
• The provision of youth outreach workers to work with large groups young people congregating around the centre, especially at weekends
• Opening youth clubs at Northburn Sports and Leisure Centre and other centres around Cramlington
• Working with schools to help young people to understand the impact of their behaviour
• Identifying ringleaders and taking swift action against them

Work is now underway to progress each of the actions identified by the group. Cramlington Town Council is already working with other agencies to provide youth outreach workers, engaging directly with school pupils, and looking to increase the provision of youth clubs in the town.

 

Councillor Helen Morris also attended the meeting. She concluded “I fully sympathise with residents affected by the ASB around Brockwell but following the first Community Trigger meeting I do have hope…

“The multi-agency approach is definitely the way to go and please know that all the parties involved are committed to working together and tackling this very difficult issue.”

 

Pictured: The Brockwell Centre in Cramlington

Image: Google