The Scottish Government

This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Antisocial behaviour roadshow hailed a success

11/08/2006

First Minister Jack McConnell today said a Scottish government roadshow to publicise the powers and resources available to tackle antisocial behaviour had proved "extremely successful".

More than 6,500 people visited the roadshow as it toured the country for three weeks in July. As a result, over 800 people have had specific cases of ASB referred to the relevant local agencies for consideration and action.

The Antisocial Behaviour Roadshow toured 15 local authorities to publicise what local agencies can do for local people. Scottish Ministers from a number of portfolios supported the tour during the three weeks.

The main focal point of the roadshow was a truck where specialist staff, supported by state-of-the-art technology, were able to answer queries from members of the public.

Ministers believe that members of the public need clear information about the new powers available and they are encouraging individuals and communities to report problems for action.

Speaking as he visited Greenock - where the roadshow began its tour - to discuss action on antisocial behaviour with those most affected, the First Minister said:

"Antisocial behaviour brings misery to the lives of the law-abiding majority. We need to reintroduce respect back into communities.

"This roadshow has helped our Scottish government make clear it is on the side of decent, hard-working families who want to stop antisocial behaviour blighting their community.

We have created the new powers and delivered extra money to tackle the problem.

"Now I hope everyone who visited it has come away knowing that the resources and powers are here to help them. I know more than 800 people have already taken the next step and sought the assistance of local agencies. I hope many more will follow their example.

"The success of this campaign was due in no small part to the visible presence at the roadshow of police, local authorities and other agencies. I expect them to stand ready and be determined to help.

"And I believe that the the roadshow has sent out a strong message to those responsible for antisocial behaviour. We will not tolerate the type of selfish thuggery that ruins lives any longer.

Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry, who visited the roadshow at six of the locations, said:

"The Antisocial Behaviour Roadshow is just one part of our ongoing campaign to raise awareness of the help and support that is available and how to access it. This initiative has given people across Scotland a valuable opportunity to seek advice face-to-face. We will look to see how we can build on this success in future phases of campaign activity."

The roadshow format was designed to publicise the range of ASB measures and resources available to local agencies to help people stand up to unruly behaviour in their communities. It was one part of a national campaign which also included high-profile TV advertising.

In addition to generating local publicity, the roadshow provided an opportunity for members of the public to talk to frontline staff from local authorities, the police and other agencies about ASB. A total of 6,581 people were spoken to by staff at the roadshow locations - with at least 859 referrals to local agencies.

Figures for each of the roashow locations, and where available, ASB referrals to local agencies for the locations are available below:

The total cost of the roadshow was just under £65,000 including VAT.