Over 50% of community councils which responded to a survey believe the comhairle’s
proposed action plant to combat anti-social behaviour will not deliver a positive
impact on communities.
The comhairle’s current policy and procedure is many years out of date having been put in place back in 2012. Changes over the last decade means the policy is not relevant.
Islanders have been raising anti-social behaviour issues with local councillors and
in an effort to bring things up to date a draft anti-social behaviour strategy and
an action plan was drawn up.
Consultation was undertaken in recent weeks though less than half of community councils responded while 46 young people gave their feedback.
According to a council report, from a survey with community councils, 54% of respondents felt the strategy would not deliver a positive impact on communities. Some 27% felt it would have a partial impact.
There was a feeling amongst some that there would be little impact if those offending
are under-16. Community Service was suggested as a “useful consequence” for anti-social
behaviour.
Other feedback suggested the proposed strategy and action plan is vague with clearer outcomes needed and partner agencies identified.
Some young people who responded to the consultation shared that they had experienced
anti-social behaviour in their community or school. More activities should be provided
for young people such as clubs and groups they say, and compassion should be taught
and encouraged from a young age, in an effort to counteract it.
It is proposed to update the draft strategy and action plan to reflect the feedback and circulate the revised document to partner agencies for their comments.
Lukewarm response to comhairle’s proposed anti-
23 April 2025
Anti-social behaviour is more prevalent in Stornoway
