£1m package to tackle ASB

Theresa May will announce a network of advocates to work with victims of ASB, supporting them and ensuring they are able to access local support services. The network will be set up by national charity Victim support and Louise Casey, commissioner for victims and witnesses.

The advocates will hold public meetings and conduct surveys of experiences of anti-social behaviour. They will also advise the new police and crime commissioners when they start work in 2012.

Ms May said: ‘Crime and anti-social behavious blights communities and can make people’s lives an absolute misery, in some cases leading to tragic consequences.

‘I am delighted this money will see victims better represented at a local level ahead of PCCs who will take forward this important work from May next year.’

Ms Casey described the funding as ‘a real show of support from the government’.

She added: ‘This funding from the Home Secretary allows for the ground to be laid in advance of the arrival of PCCs to gauge what victims’ experiences are, what services are currently on offer and what more will need to be done.’