Time's up for anti-social behaviour

9 August 2019 

Close partnership working between Sovereign Housing Association and Thames Valley Police has led to the eviction of a man from his Thatcham home bringing immediate respite for the neighbourhood.

A possession order was served by the county court on the property at Beancroft Road, Thatcham and eviction took place on 1 August 2019, after repeated reports of noise nuisance and drug related anti-social behaviour in the area. Over time, the traditionally quiet neighbourhood had become a community where residents no longer felt comfortable and safe in their own homes, a situation which could not be allowed to continue.

Despite offers of support and advice from his landlord, Sovereign, and warnings that he was at risk of losing his tenancy, the resident’s anti-social behaviour continued and visits by the police became more frequent.

“Taking steps for eviction is always a very last resort for us,” said Sovereign’s Antisocial Behaviour Officer. “We want to help people sustain their tenancies and working with partner agencies, we provide support and guidance to help our residents. This can include anything from managing rent accounts to signposting to support with rehabilitation.

“However, we have to balance this support with the impact someone’s behaviour is having on other residents. When people repeatedly reject the opportunity to work with us, nor accept offers of support, we have to consider the wider neighbourhood and the effect the actions are having on their local community.

Newbury & Thatcham Neighbourhood Inspector, Mark Tucker, said: ““I would like to thank the local community for their patience and co-operation.

“This result demonstrates that by working closely with Sovereign we were able to successfully obtain closure orders from the court, before being granted the possession order. This partnership action will undoubtedly help improve the quality of life of those that live and work within the local community.

“Persistent anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in West Berkshire.”