Cleveland Fire Brigade urges its communities to take action against Anti-Social Behaviour

Cleveland Fire Brigade has joined a national campaign to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB) and arson to help keep people in our communities safe.

With around 85% of their fire calls being deliberate in nature, the Brigade is joining partners in the national clampdown as part of ASB Awareness Week 2023, which runs between 3rd – 9th July.

The campaign, organised by Resolve, the UK’s leading ASB and community safety organisation aims to encourage communities to take a stand against ASB and highlight the actions that can be taken by those experiencing it.

Throughout the week a series of events will take place all across the UK involving Councils, Fire and Rescue Services, Police Forces, Housing Associations, charities, community groups and sports clubs.

Recent YouGov research commissioned by Resolve found that almost 1 in 5 people have had to consider moving home because of the impact ASB was having on them; 1 in 10 have actually moved. Despite this, over half of those surveyed who were either a victim or witness of ASB did not report the ASB.

The Brigade is urging members of the public not to suffer in silence if they experience ASB. Incidents can be reported to the anti-social behaviour team at the local Council, or to the Police if people feel that they are at immediate risk or in danger.  Any information relating to people starting deliberate fires or violence against fire crews in our area can also be reported 100% anonymously through FireStoppers by calling 0800 169 5558 or completing the simple form on www.firestoppersreport.co.uk.

Robin Turnbull, Area Manager for Prevention, Protection and Engagement at Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “Anti-social behaviour and arson not only destroy communities, but they tie up our firefighters and divert resources from incidents where lives may be at risk.

This week we are saying enough is enough. We know it can be incredibly frustrating for our residents living in areas with high amounts of anti-social behaviour and want to encourage them to make a stand, know their rights and start reporting issues.”

Rebecca Bryant OBE, Chief Executive of Resolve added:

“ASB is not low-level. It can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on the lives of victims and communities and can be a precursor to more serious crime.

“It is important that the challenge of ASB continues to be given the priority it needs so that people everywhere feel safe in their homes and communities.

“We are delighted that Cleveland Fire Brigade is supporting this hugely important campaign. It is vital to develop partnership approaches across communities to deal with the growing challenges around ASB.”

For more information about ASB Awareness Week – visit www.resolveuk.org.uk