Rowntree Trust say ASBOs not the only answer

BY PAUL JEEVES Yorkshire Evening Post 3/6/05

A Yorkshire think-tank has called on the Government to focus on the causes of anti-social behaviour rather than just dishing out Asbos.

Research for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation reveals that 66 % of adults believe preventative action offers the most effective way to tackle intimidation, vandalism and other anti-social behaviour.

Just 20 % of people interviewed in a specially-commisioned national survey see tough action in the form of an anti-social behaviour order as the best way forward. Another 11 per cent called for a combination of prevention and enforcement.

The study, carried out by King's College, London, suggests that even in neighbourhoods experiencing serious anti-social behaviour, residents offer conflicting explanations for the problems. Focus groups in some worst-affected areas found that while older residents tended to view anti-social behaviour as a symptom of declining moral standards, others blamed it on social deprivation and the disengagement of a growing minority of young people and families.

A third group took a "kids will be kids" attitude, seeing anti-social behaviour as a consequence of young people's tendency to rebel, get into trouble and antagonise their elders.

Study co-author Professor Mike Hough said: "The Government's campaign against anti-social behaviour appeals to the 'law-abiding majority' to take a stand, portraying a struggle between ordinary, decent people and a tide of loutishness.

"The reality suggested by our research ... suggests that the public want policy makers to balance tough enforcement through Asbos with strong action to prevent problems and offer young people constructive alternatives."

The research combined a survey of adults in key areas across the country in major cities such as Leeds alongside in-depth interviews with community representatives and bodies such as the police, anti-social behaviour co-ordinators and housing officers.

Prof Hough added: "In areas most beset by anti-social behaviour, ways must be found of countering the sense of powerlessness and entrenched pessimism among residents ."

paul.jeeves@ypn.co.uk
03 June 2005