New face tackles anti-social behaviour for Sarsen

Published by MSC for Sarsen Housing Association in Housing

The fight against anti-social behaviour is being stepped up by Sarsen Housing Association following the recruitment of an ex-police officer.

Darren Brazil, who served six years with Greater Manchester Police, is now overseeing Sarsen neighbourhoods in Wiltshire and Devon as the new anti-social behaviour officer.

The 34 year-old, based in Devizes, will be using his skills in negotiation, problem-solving, analysis and investigation to deal with any serious and persistent offending.

Darren is also putting together a user-friendly anti-social behaviour ‘evidence diary’ for residents to record any persistent incidents, and he’s looking at working with the Wiltshire Probation Service to engage offenders in community projects, such as clearing overgrown areas to prevent fly-tipping.

There are a wide range of issues which are classed as anti-social behaviour.

These are:  

• Noisy neighbours, such as barking dogs and loud music
• Youth-related activities, such as graffiti/vandalism, verbal/physical abuse,  motorbikes/mopeds on footpaths, and underage drinking
• Harassment
• Intimidation/groups gathering, where abusive language or behaviour is used, including the threat of violence
• Fly tipping – where rubbish is dumped in public areas
• Vehicle nuisance

Darren said: “I’ve seen a lot of extreme cases of anti-social behaviour over the years. Fortunately, Wiltshire has one of the lowest records of anti-social behaviour, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a problem for our tenants – some of whom may experience it on a daily basis, which can be quite traumatic and draining. We want our tenants to know they’re not alone, we’re here to tackle the problem head on and give tenants their lives back.

“One of the biggest concerns we have is the use of drugs as anti-social behaviour is often associated with this. The storage, dealing and use of drugs in our properties will not be tolerated and we’ll take possession of any property where the police have executed a drugs warrant that results in a conviction for intent to supply.”

Darren will link in with Sarsen’s neighbourhood housing officers who will be the first point of contact for reporting incidents of anti-social behaviour. He will also be working in partnership with key local organisations, such as the police and local authorities, to tackle any incidents.

Residents can fine out who their neighbourhood housing officer is by visiting the ‘Your home’ section of www.sarsen.co.uk or by calling 01380 720027.