Acceptable behaviour contracts working to tackle Anti-Social behaviour

The Home Secretary today (23 August 2007) called on police and local authorities across the country to use the successful Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs) to nip anti-social behaviour in the bud. The widespread and effective use of ABCs in tackling anti-social behaviour has brought respite to thousands of communities across England and Wales, as the number of ABCs in place has reached 25,000. The effects are shown in the 94% of areas where local people had seen a fall in anti-social behaviour. Also today, the Government published guidance aimed at those on the front-line in the fight against anti-social behaviour on how to make the best of ABCs. The guidance has been drawn up with the support of a range of agencies, including the police and local authorities. It brings together examples of best practice and reflects how ABCs are being used effectively across the country as part of the toolkit for tackling anti-social behaviour.