Hotspot areas targeted during ASB awareness week

More than 6,000 hours of visible patrols in hotspot areas across the county have been conducted since April as part of a proactive approach to tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB).

In February this year, the Force through the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) received £1m from the Home Office to crack down on ASB and serious violence in targeted areas.

Since April, Wiltshire Police, in collaboration with the OPCC and local partners, have delivered over 6,000 hours of visible patrols in hotspots across the county and Swindon, involving more than 140 officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and ASB Street Wardens.

This proactive approach has achieved the following outcomes so far:

• 87 individuals arrested
• 32 stop searches conducted
• Seizures of three weapons, cannabis, drug paraphernalia, and two illegal bikes
• Eight tickets issued for breaches of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs)
• Over 150 ASB incidents addressed, including public disorder, youth-related ASB, vehicle-related ASB, and street drinking

In addition, IProveFit youth workers have been engaging with young people in hotspot locations across Swindon, offering support and positive activities. Specialist training has also been provided to officers, PCSOs, and staff, enabling them to act as ASB Advisors. These advisors provide critical guidance and expertise to colleagues tackling ASB incidents.

As part of the national ASB Awareness Week, Wiltshire Police is highlighting the success of these initiatives and reinforcing the importance of community involvement.

ASB Hotspot Manager, Lianna Bradshaw, emphasised the value of this targeted approach:

“This initiative demonstrates how focused efforts can reduce and prevent anti-social behaviour and serious violence. Visible patrols have enabled us to engage with local communities, address immediate concerns, and work alongside partners to provide solutions, such as detached youth work.

“Increased foot patrols have led to valuable intelligence gathering and significant community engagement, which has a tangible positive impact. For example, officers have disrupted potential offences, such as diffusing arguments before they escalate into violence.

“However, we know ASB is still under-reported. I encourage everyone to report incidents when they occur. Your reports help us take targeted action and work with partners to reduce anti-social behaviour in your area.”

Philip Wilkinson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said:

 "Anti-social behaviour is one of the most common concerns I hear when talking to residents, and I continue to discuss those concerns with the Chief Constable. 

"For repeat victims of anti-social behaviour, its impact can be overwhelming, with no escape from the often-accompanying intimidation, threats and fear.

“In recent years, we have made significant progress in Wiltshire and Swindon to address anti-social behaviour. My office has funded organisations like IProveFit to engage with young people and provide diversionary activities to stop them from becoming involved in ASB.

"Within my office, Wiltshire Police - and in partnership with local authorities – we have developed an anti-social behaviour toolkit and we have published our joint Community Remedy to ensure each ASB report is responded to effectively by the most appropriate agency.

"Our residents should be left in no doubt that this is an issue we take seriously, and, with our partners, we are taking the necessary measures to deal with it."

ASB Awareness Week provided an opportunity for communities to reflect on the importance of tackling ASB together. Wiltshire Police remains committed to addressing these issues and making our communities safer for everyone.