In December 2009, Arena Homes ‘ASB’ unit investigated complaints of allegations and counter-allegations from two feuding neighbours in Warrington. Both parties presented serious but unsubstantiated complaints of anti-social behaviour and harassment to Arena Homes.
On investigation further complexities arose due to vulnerable nature of one of the complainants, who suffered from a medical affliction which affected their behavioral and capacity functions. The investigating ASB Officer consequently liaised closely with individual’s family members, carer’s and support agencies to ensure that the best possible services was being offered by Arena Homes. After interviewing both complainants, the ASB team decided it would be prudent to involve further support and enforcement agencies as there appeared to be more to the situation than was evident from speaking solely to the residents. As well as making a referral directly to Social Services, a meeting was arranged by Arena Homes, which was attended by the local authority’s coordinator for anti-social behaviour in Warrington, Arena’s ASB Officer, Customer Services Manager and the Inspector, Sergeant and Constables from Great Manchester Police. The purpose of the meeting was to share information and collectively discuss an action plan to address the alleged anti-social behaviour.
After much information sharing between professionals during the meeting, it became evident that due to very specific circumstances exhibited separately by both residents, there was a very real and dangerous potential for disaster. It was stated that:
Neighbour (a) suffered from a medical condition which meant that they had very little social interaction skills. This lack of social self recognition resulted in what would appear to other residents as a very bizarre, hostile and at times intrusive behaviour. This individual does not understand or follow society’s norms.
Neighbour (b), as disclosed by the Police, had a long history of serious and violent crimes against individuals who exhibited the same behavioural and physical traits as neighbour (a). Although all sentences have been served, Cheshire Police did classify Neighbour (b) as a serious and high risk threat to neighbour (a).
Although there was no evidence that crimes at this stage had been committed, it was very clear from existing complaints that communication had already broken down and the situation was escalating between neighbours (a) and (b). Armed with this new information from the Police, it was clear that the potential for a serious incident was very real and probable outcome. Within the hour Arena’s ASB Team undertook steps to re-house neighbour (a) to suitable and appropriate accommodation in another area. Neighbour (b), although not guilty of any tenancy breaches or ‘new’ crimes is now on Arena’s ‘radar’ and will be managed appropriately.
During this whole process Arena’s ASB team worked closely with support and enforcement agencies as well as carers and residents to bring a satisfactory resolution to this unique situation. Although no tenancy enforcement action was appropriate in this case, early intervention, ‘joined up working’ from a multi-agency view point, good tenancy and social support as well as a proactive and innovative approach to investigating anti-social behaviour by Arena Homes and partners in Warrington has successfully resolved a dangerous situation before catastrophe struck. The family of Neighbour (a) contacted Arena Homes after the move and thanked us for our swift action and stated that Neighbour (a) is very happy and coping very well in their new property.