Tackling anti-social behaviour in Stevenage
The large number of letters in her postbag over recent months about youth nuisance worries prompted Stevenage MP Barbara Follett to call together various agencies in the town to discuss the problem.
Representatives from Stevenage Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council, the Fire Service, Neighbourhood Watch, the Police, Herts Probation Service and Victim Support told her of the problems they face and the solutions they were implementing.
During 2000/2001, the rate of disorder incidents in Stevenage was about 80% higher than the county average. About 60% of these incidents occur during the late afternoon and early evening. Anti-Social Behaviour Orders had been issued and had proved effective. However, they were extremely costly to administer and generated as much police work as a domestic murder.
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs Follett said "This is a difficult and complex problem. I shall be raising Stevenage's specific concerns with the Home Secretary, David Blunkett, this week and with Education Ministers later this month".
Barbara Follett MP (centre) with attendees of the meeting
Issued: 29.01.02
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