Number of initiatives have helped tackle complaints of antisocial behaviour
The Preston/Seton/Gosford Problem Solving Partnership (PSP) was established in December 2021. It was set up with the objective of addressing the antisocial behaviour being perpetrated by a small minority of young people within the ward at that time. In September 2022 the PSP came to an end following upon a reduction in complaints and a cased based review showing the positive engagement and choices of these young people.
The PSP brought together officers from Police Scotland, East Lothian Council, local Councillors and the Pennypit Community Development Trust.
Measures taken included: an increase in the number of Community Wardens patrols, the deployment of targeted police resources, the installation of portable CCTV cameras, the increased use of council’s CCTV van, extensive engagement with young people via the council’s Youth Workers and the Pennypit Community Development Trust, the setting up of individual and group diversionary activities and the taking of enforcement action against persistent offenders.
The local Area Partnership’s sub group, the Children and Youth Network, continues to meet with the purpose of developing closer partnership working and planning future youth and children’s activities as well as monitoring individual cases.
Kenneth Black, East Lothian Council’s Safer Communities Team Manager, and Chair of the PSP said: “Antisocial behaviour has to be addressed from a number of different angles and the PSP sought to do that by the taking of early intervention, preventative, diversionary and enforcement steps when necessary. It is hoped that this joined up approach will continue to deliver long-term and primarily preventative solutions to antisocial behaviour. It should be noted that the PSP’s are temporary in nature and can be revived at any time should the need arise”.
Chief Inspector Jocelyn O’Connor, Local Area Commander for East Lothian said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour in our local communities is a key priority and we work alongside partners to address the issues raised as we know the impact anti-social behaviour can have.
“The vast majority of our young people do not cause any trouble however there is a small minority who do. Partnership working and early intervention has led to a reduction in anti-social behaviour in the area and we will continue to address any concerns people in the community have.
“I would ask parents and carers to assist us in reducing anti-social behaviour by taking an interest in where their children are, what they are doing, and who they are with.
“I would also ask the local community to aid in this partnership working by reporting any concerns.”
Antisocial Behaviour can be reported to East Lothian Council via the Antisocial Behaviour Helpline on 01875 824 307, by e-mailing asb@eastlothian.gov.uk or on-line at www.eastlothian.gov.uk. All calls are treated with the strictest confidence.