Anti-Social Behaviour

Sandwell Council (the council) is committed to tackling antisocial behaviour in a practical, fair and supportive way. As part of this approach, we use Restorative Justice (RJ) and Mediation to address antisocial behaviour (ASB).

These methods focus on solving problems early, fixing harm, and building better communication and understanding between those involved. The goal of these practices is to stop issues from getting worse and to prevent the need to use more formal action. 

Restorative Justice (RJ)

RJ is used where ASB is causing harm or distress to people, communities and neighbourhoods by a known person or group.

It gives people an opportunity to discuss what happened and explain the impact of the behaviour in a safe and supported setting. At the same time those responsible for the behaviour are given the chance to acknowledge their actions, understand the impact, and take responsibility. This may involve everyone agreeing what practical steps can be taken to put things right, such as changing behaviour, apologising, or repairing damage.

RJ has been shown to be highly effective in persistent ASB cases, neighbour disputes, and incidents involving young people, helping to reduce repeat offending and improve long‑term outcomes.

Benefits of this approach

• Those affected are given a voice to feel heard and empowered
• RJ helps people understand what real life impacts their actions have on others
• By creating direct personal links, understanding and accountability, repeat behaviour is reduced
• Those who caused past ASB become more accepted and included by the wider community by making amends
• RJ is more cost effective, allowing better service resourcing for the community

More information about the effectiveness of Restorative Justice can be found at Restorative Justice Council Evidence supporting the use of restorative justice.

Mediation

Mediation helps neighbours or members of the community settle disputes, improve communications and mend relationships.

It is a voluntary and confidential process, guided by a neutral mediator. The mediator helps both sides talk calmly and listen to each other in a safe and supportive setting. The mediation will aim to identify and focus on the root causes of disagreements like misunderstandings or lifestyle differences. The participants are supported to find their own solutions that everyone agrees on. Often used in neighbour disputes and early‑stage ASB cases, this method aims to stop issues from getting worse and needing formal action.

Benefits of this approach

• Solutions can be found more quickly, reducing stress and avoiding formal action
• Neighbour relations are better preserved
• Those involved take control of a solution they are happy with  
• Neighbours learn to understand each other's needs better
• Mediation requires fewer resources and is more cost effective

More information about the benefits of Mediation can be seen through UK Government guidance What are the benefits of mediation?

Key points

• Restorative Justice and Mediation services are voluntary and require the agreement of all parties to engage in the processes.
• Specialist officers supervise services to ensure fairness and safety
• The processes focus on practical solutions, not blame
• Formal enforcement powers can be used alongside these services where appropriate

The aims of these council services

• Resolve ASB issues more quickly, fairly and effectively
• Empower those impacted by giving them a voice
• Encourage lasting behavioural change
• Improve relationships within communities and between neighbours
• Reduce the need for enforcement action and legal proceedings
• Reinforce the relationship between the council and the people of Sandwell
• Improve cost-effectiveness through better use of ASB Service resources

These methods form part of the council’s wider commitment to creating safer, stronger communities by tackling antisocial behaviour in a balanced and supportive way.