It is a difficult area of crime to tackle because it includes such a broad range of activities. For example, broken windows or damage to vehicles. It is often the result of mindless behaviour (often alcohol fuelled) so it is extremely difficult to discourage.
The Partnership is active in tackling vandalism by a number of approaches:
Reducing incentives
- Increasing diversionary opportunities
- Better street cleaning
- Quick removal of graffiti
- Unpaid work teams on clean up
- Specialist projects working in schools
- Promotion in schools of criminal damage being a crime
Reducing Opportunities
- Safer car Parking
- Tackling fraudulent reporting in council owned properties
- Bus shelter protection
Managing Offending
- Increase the use of fixed penalty notices
- Using Mobile CCTV provision
- More targeted patrolling by PCSOs and Security Staff
What can you do?
- Park your car safely. In a garage or under a light where possible
- Contribute to your street and community by being as clean as possible (Vandalism often occurs where an area is a bit run-down)
- Contribute to any activity programmes that young people in your area have access to (Bored young people are often involved in minor vandalism)
- Contact Crime Stoppers if you have any information regarding offenders on 0800 555 111
- Contact Anti-Social Behaviour Unit with any issues related to Criminal Damage
- Contact the Probation Team and ask for the unpaid work team on 01942 876889. They can help with any sites which require any graffiti removal or general environmental cleanup
