LMH & Liverpool unites against ASB

Published by Jean Clarke for Liverpool Mutual Homes in Housing and also in Communities, Local Government

Housing associations, tenants and partner agencies in Liverpool have united against anti-social behaviour in the city.

The ‘Be Safe’ event hosted by representatives from all of Liverpool’s housing associations was held at St George’s Hall.

Housing associations from across the city came together in partnership with Liverpool City Council, the police, fire service, PCT and community safety partners to agree a unified approach to tackling anti-social behaviour and to launch a shared minimum service standard that can be expected by all tenants and residents, regardless of their landlord.

With tenants from each housing association attending the day, the event demonstrated to them that anti-social behaviour perpetrated by the minority will be tackled consistently across Liverpool by the social landlords and partner agencies.

LMH Director of Housing and Customer Services, Angela Forshaw, said: “The ‘Be Safe’ event allowed our strategic housing partnership to launch a unified vision for tackling anti-social behaviour across Liverpool.

“Our group has worked closely with Councillor Ann O’Byrne, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Housing, in achieving a commitment from a range of agencies to take a collective and united stand against anyone who does not respect their neighbours, environment, homes or the law.

“By working together with residents and taking a consistent approach it makes it very clear to those people who commit crime and ASB that it will not be tolerated in Liverpool.

“In order to make communities safer, housing associations have to tackle the root cause of the problems together with tenants, the police, and emergency services.  Tenants are, and always will be, our key priority and their safety is paramount.  They are also key to sustainable solutions.“

Approximately 350 tenants attended and found the event really useful and it allowed partner organisations across the city to show the amount of support and help that is available. A ‘Question Time’ session and use of interactive keypads made the day memorable.

Councillor Ann O’Byrne said: “The day was vibrant and a great success. It underlined the importance of partnership and working with residents in reducing anti-social behaviour.  Liverpool has a rich heritage and can boast many ‘firsts’ and all of the housing associations signing up to this joint protocol is another one that we can be proud of.’’

Apart from the launch of the shared service standards, the event also gave residents the opportunity to discuss anti-social behaviour related issues and for organisations to explain the support services and enforcement tools available to help anyone who is  experiencing any form of ASB.

Ends

Photograph: LMH’s Angela Forshaw (front right holding board) with Cllr Ann O’Byrne (front middle holding board) and representatives of Merseyside housing associations and partner who have united against anti-social behaviour in the city.