Onward Homes has secured England’s first respect order, working with msb Solicitors and Greater Manchester Police to take targeted legal action against antisocial behaviour.
The Government’s new respect order came into place on 26 October and replaced civil injunctions for adult offenders, enabling stronger enforcement action against those responsible for antisocial behaviour.
The housing association welcomed the new powers as a necessary step to protect customers from behaviour that affects people’s wellbeing and enjoyment of their homes.
Following a report of assault, Onward worked closely with its customers, msb Solicitors and the police to investigate and pursue legal action. Witness accounts, colleague observations and risk assessments helped build the evidence supporting the application.
The order granted places legally enforceable restrictions on the offender’s behaviour. Onward will work with relevant agencies to monitor compliance and investigate any reported breaches, considering further enforcement action where appropriate.
Respect orders form part of the Government’s approach to tackling antisocial behaviour. Alongside restrictions on harmful behaviour, the powers can provide a means of addressing its underlying causes, with the aim of preventing further harm.
Joanne Danaher, Director of Neighbourhoods at Onward, welcomed the new powers as a key tool to addressing antisocial behaviour.
“We want our customers to feel heard, supported and confident that we will act on their concerns, so they can feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.”
“While incidents like this are rare, lasting solutions take more than enforcement alone. By working with our partners, we will continue to combine firm, proportionate legal action with tailored support to protect customers and prevent further harm.”
“These new powers give us another way to tackle antisocial behaviour, and customers’ safety and wellbeing will guide how we use them.”
Louise Murphy, Head of Social Housing and Regeneration at msb Solicitors, added:
“At msb Solicitors, we are proud to be at the forefront of legal services in antisocial behaviour and community safety, and extremely proud of MSB’s Social Housing Partner, Kirsty Varley, who acted as advocate for Onward and successfully secured this landmark respect order.”
“It is particularly encouraging to see these new powers being used to protect victims of antisocial behaviour and make communities safer, and this outcome is a great example of what can be achieved through strong partnership working between housing providers, the police and specialist legal advisers.”
Oliver Bailey, Inspector at Greater Manchester Police, said:
“Keeping our communities safe is most effective when organisations work together. This outcome reflects the value of strong partnership working, sharing information, and taking positive action to help people feel safe where they live and visit.”