Independent Working Group on Antisocial Behaviour: review report

Conclusion

This report has attempted to outline all the information that the Independent Working Group has collated over the last year. As we stated at the start of the report, this has not been an easy task. At times we have heard conflicting views, and, as antisocial behaviour can mean many different things to different people and the impact of such behaviour can have far reaching consequences for victims, different responses are required.

Underlying much of what we heard has wider policy implications and links to poverty, deprivation, a lack of investment and resources across Scotland. We also don’t have accurate data to capture the true picture of antisocial behaviour in Scotland, so much of what we heard was based on presumption. We did hear about the impact of Covid-19 and people’s tolerance levels changing, due to changes in working arrangements, and many resources not reopening after the pandemic, but again, much of this was based on hearsay.

The group heard that antisocial behaviour was linked to a lack of opportunities (both people and place based) - in terms of education and employment as well as boredom and lack of amenities and safe spaces. This viewpoint was made repeatedly through all consultations that were undertaken by the Working Group.

This was viewed especially important for young people as a diversionary or prosocial behaviour route, but budget pressures resulting in closures of community facilities also impacts on all generations within communities. It was felt however that investment in young people’s facilities and activities was vital as these laid the foundations for being a valued citizen, and in years to come - valued tenants.

To offer some solutions, the Working Group feel strongly that two approaches are required - firstly, prevention, to stop future antisocial behaviour, and the second, situational, to address behaviour as it happens. We therefore have made several recommendations to address the issues identified and reduce antisocial behaviour and its impact in the future.