A new countywide plan to tackle anti-social behaviour has been launched by Hertfordshire Constabulary, setting out how police and partners will respond to nuisance behaviour and support victims.

The new Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Action Plan outlines how the force aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve public confidence in how reports are handled. The plan focuses on early intervention, visible policing in hotspot areas, and stronger partnership working with councils, housing providers and health services.

Chief Constable Andy Prophet said anti-social behaviour can have a serious impact on communities and victims.

He said: "Anti-social behaviour can be hugely detrimental to people and communities. That is why we are committed to tackling it consistently and effectively. This plan strengthens our prevention work, our visibility on the streets, and our partnership approach. Most importantly, it ensures victims are at the heart of our response."

The plan also supports the priorities of Hertfordshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards, who said anti-social behaviour should not be seen as "low level" crime because of the impact it can have on victims and neighbourhoods.

Under the new plan, the force says it will:

• Provide better communication and support for victims
• Increase visible policing in anti-social behaviour hotspots
• Intervene earlier to prevent issues escalating
• Work more closely with partner organisations to tackle repeat offenders

Residents can find more information about anti-social behaviour and how to report it via the Hertfordshire Constabulary website.

The new action plan forms part of the force's wider Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, which aims to strengthen local policing and community safety across the county, including in towns such as Hitchin.

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