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The Government’s RESPECT co-ordinator, Louise Casey, presents the award to tenant Penny Jackson
It takes a lot of courage to stand up to anti-social neighbours who physically assault and verbally abuse you and and damage your property. Eight villagers of Mattersey Thorpe in Bassetlaw did just that, with the help of NCHA , A1 Housing and Bassetlaw District Council.
Together they gathered damning CCTV and other evidence, which they took to the police. As a result Worksop County Court gave NCHA permission in December 2006 to immediately evict one father and son, who are now banned from the village. Members of another family, who are A1 Housing tenants, gave undertakings about their behaviour. The family will be evicted, if the undertakings are breached within 12 months of the court hearing.
"NCHA will always support residents who are the victims of anti-social behaviour (ASB)," says Chief Executive Mike Andrews. "We investigate all reports of ASB and take whatever action is necessary. While we always try conciliation and mediation first, we take a tough line where it is necessary. Most of our tenants behave responsibly. Their lives cannot be ruined by the handful who don’t. The welfare of the victims must come first."
Ian Brady from the Home Office visits the Nottingham Family Intervention Project
During the year NCHA, which has a comprehensive ASB policy, has signed up to the Government’s Respect Standard for Housing Management, an initiative that provides support and advice to organisations tackling ASB.
However, it believes that prevention is always better than a cure, and supports youth clubs and community groups and provides Community Leisure Cards for young people that can be used at 200 swimming pools and leisure centres. Since this policy was introduced, ASB on the Association’s estates has fallen.
NCHA also works with the Nottingham Family Intervention Project that gives intensive support to dysfunctional families.
