We're here to support residents to address anti-social behaviour in a dignified, tolerant and supportive way.
Good neighbours are considerate, tolerant, and understanding of others, and many low-level issues can often be resolved through communication and understanding.
Before reporting an issue, you may find it helpful to read our good neighbour guide, which contains practical advice on resolving neighbour disputes and preventing situations from escalating, including how to approach your neighbour.
Every report is different. We will assess the circumstances of each case and agree the most appropriate course of action with you.
Before you report anti-social behaviour
Where it is safe and appropriate to do so, you may wish to try some simple steps to resolve the issue yourself. However, these steps are not mandatory, and you can report anti-social behaviour to us at any time.
1) Speak to your neighbour
If it is safe to do so, consider speaking to your neighbour about the issue. They may not realise their behaviour is having an impact on you.
In many cases, a friendly conversation can resolve concerns before they escalate.
If you choose to speak to your neighbour, it may be helpful to make a note of the date and time of the conversation.
If you do not feel comfortable approaching them yourself, you may wish to ask a trusted friend or relative to speak with them on your behalf.
2) Write to your neighbour
If you would prefer not to approach your neighbour in person, consider writing a friendly letter outlining the issue and the impact it is having on you.
Alternatively, you can use one of our Dear Neighbour Cards.
If you send a letter or card, it may be useful to keep a copy and note when it was sent.
3) Keeping a record of incidents
If anti-social behaviour is ongoing, keeping a record of incidents can help us understand the nature, frequency and impact of the issues being reported.
Depending on the circumstances, we may agree with you that diary sheets, photographs, videos, witness accounts, Noise App recordings or other information would assist in understanding and resolving the issue.
Completing diary sheets is not required before reporting anti-social behaviour. However, where issues continue over time, they can provide valuable information which may assist an investigation and support any future enforcement action where necessary.
If you are unable to read or write, or require additional support, alternative methods of recording incidents are available, including the loan of a Dictaphone. Phone our Contact Centre to discuss your needs.
Guidance on diary sheets
If diary sheets are being used as part of an agreed action plan, we would normally recommend returning them:
- Every 7 days if issues are occurring daily
- Every 14 days if issues are occurring several times a week
- Every 28 days if issues are occurring several times a month
This helps us review the information promptly and agree any next steps with you.
4) 'The Noise App' (version 2.0)
The Noise App (version 2.0) is available for Apple and Google Play devices.
The app allows residents to record noise issues using their smartphone and submit recordings directly to Wigan Council for review. It can also be used to keep a personal record of incidents and submit short videos.
The Noise App is one of several ways that residents may choose to record ongoing issues. It is not a requirement for reporting anti-social behaviour.
When creating an account, select Wigan Council as your service provider.
The recordings are uploaded securely and can be reviewed by investigating officers where appropriate.
You can:
- Make up to 10 recordings in a 24-hour period
- Record clips of up to 30 seconds each
- Upload photographs
- Upload up to 5 videos of up to 60 seconds each
How to create a Noise App (version 2.0) account
View our guide about creating a Noise App account below.
Report the issue to us
You can report anti-social behaviour to us at any time.
Before making a report, you may find it helpful to:
These steps are not mandatory, and you can still report anti-social behaviour if you have not completed them.
To report anti-social behaviour
- Confirm that the matter is considered anti-social behaviour
- Gather any information you would like us to consider, such as diary sheets, photographs, videos, Noise App recordings or other relevant evidence
- Login or register for MyAccount and select 'Report anti-social behaviour'
- If you do not wish to report through MyAccount, you can report using the Report anti-social behaviour online form
- If you are unable to report online, telephone our Contact Centre
Any information you provide will help us understand the issues being reported and determine the most appropriate course of action. Depending on the circumstances, we may agree with you how further information can be gathered as part of an investigation.
We will review your report and aim to contact you as soon as possible, normally within 5 working days, to discuss the issues and agree the most appropriate next steps.
What if it's an emergency?
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
If you are concerned about the welfare of an adult contact the Wigan Safeguarding team.
If you are worried about the safety of a child contact Children's Safeguarding Services.
If it's not an emergency but involves criminal activity contact Greater Manchester Police by calling 101 or reporting it online (external link).
If you wish to provide information anonymously contact CrimeStoppers online (external link) or call 0800 555 111.