Norfolk Constabulary has been commended for the way it responds to reports of anti-social behaviour.
Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) reviewed how Norfolk police dealt with anti-social behaviour in 2010 and returned earlier this year to check on progress.
A new report, published today, found that every anti-social behaviour victim in Norfolk is responded to comprehensively, leading to high levels of satisfaction. Inspectors said victims of anti-social behaviour in Norfolk 'were far more likely than the national average to agree that the police had listened to what they had to say' which was a 'good result for the force'.
The report found detailed checks that take place upon reporting an incident and a multi-agency approach means that officers, staff and partners in the county are well-equipped to deal with any incident that occurs. During their most recent inspection, this year, the HMIC team looked at the process, capabilities and approach taken by Norfolk Constabulary in dealing with anti-social behaviour.
It concluded that Norfolk recorded a medium level of anti-social behaviour in comparison to the rest of the country.
It highlighted the joint strategy to anti-social behaviour developed by the force and local authority partners, including joint risk assessments and the introduction of seven multi-agency Operational Partnership Teams (OPTs) across the county.
These teams, made up of police and local authority staff, are dedicated to preventing and resolving anti-social behaviour issues in local communities.
The report stated anti-social behaviour was a priority and added the level of police resources devoted to the problem 'matches the force's commitment to deal with ASB as a priority'.
Phil Gormley, chief constable, said: 'Anti-social behaviour can blight communities and affect quality of life, so it is a priority for our control room staff and our partnership teams to tackle reports effectively and efficiently.
'We aim to assess all calls we receive about such behaviour to ensure we provide the appropriate response and that we support the victim with our actions. I'm very pleased that the HMIC has recognised our victim-focused approach.'
Have you got a crime story? Call Peter Walsh on 01603 772439.
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