We actively promote prevention across Haringey to foster an environment where anti-social behaviour (ASB) is less likely to happen in the first place.
We understand the importance of addressing ASB as early as possible. On many occasions, successful resolutions occur before behaviours escalate, without the need for further involvement of other agencies.
It is vital that people feel empowered and supported to address their differences amicably and respectfully in the first instance. If the behaviour does continue, our communities should feel confident to report it.
As well as responding to reports of ASB, we also undertake a range of other work to proactively address ASB and its root causes, including:
- conducting estate drop-ins in different parts of Haringey, for example, during a week of action
- providing support and guidance to residents through our communication channels, including HomesZone magazine, our website and social media
- our ASB Enforcement team attending regular ward panel meetings that are police led, and are forums for residents to discuss their concerns with officers
- maintaining strong links with drug and alcohol services, recognising the importance of addressing substance misuse in tackling ASB effectively
- supporting referrals to housing related support services, including for people in Haringey experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping
- working closely with the police on a weekly basis, to review data and understand where emerging ASB locations exist in Haringey
- using caretakers and concierges as our eyes and ears on our council estates to report any issues they observe
- working collaboratively with other council teams and external organisations such as the police, housing providers, mental health services and others to support vulnerable residents who may be involved in ASB
- working with business improvement districts, traders groups and business forums
Resolving neighbour disputes
Disputes with a neighbour can be distressing – but the neighbour might be unaware they are being disturbing or causing distress.
We recommend firstly, letting the neighbour know that they’re being disturbing either by talking or writing to them.
Talk to your neighbour
If you feel comfortable, try talking to your neighbour. Explain what the problem is and how they can solve it.
It is important to only talk to your neighbour when you feel calm. It is best not to talk to them if you’re feeling angry.
If you do not feel comfortable talking to your neighbour, you could write to them instead.
Write to your neighbour
A 'Dear neighbour' letter is a polite way of telling them what behaviour is disturbing you and asking them to stop.
You can copy and use our template text for a letter to your neighbour:
Dear neighbour,
I’m sorry to bother you, but I just wanted to let you know that on [date] at [time] I was disturbed by noise that I believe came from your property.
It sounded like [say what you think the sound was – for example, a dog barking or people shouting].
I’m sure you were not aware this might have caused a problem. I do hope it can be avoided in future so we can all enjoy living in our homes.
Thank you so much for your cooperation.
Kind regards,
Contact your neighbour’s landlord
If you know your neighbour’s landlord, you could contact them and see if they can help. The landlord could be a housing association.
Get more help
If you’ve spoken or written to your neighbour and the problem has not stopped, you can: