Tackling Anti Social Behaviour in Northern Ireland

Nicola McCrudden, Policy Manager at Housing Rights Service, explains her thoughts on the proposals for an Anti Social Behaviour Bill.

Housing Rights Service (HRS) is very aware of the devastating impact anti social behaviour has on lives and communities. When behaviour is persistent and wilful, remedies must be available, but appropriate. Eviction of any tenant from social housing is a sign of failure and should only be used when all other options are exhausted.

Understanding the nature of anti-social behaviour

HRS has direct experience of advising both victims and perpetrators of anti social behaviour. Unfortunately, we have witnessed too many cases where there has been misunderstanding about the nature of some behaviour. This is particularly relevant where the behaviour is connected to mental health and/or disability issues. In our view early intervention is critical to identify families who are vulnerable and who need additional support and advice to ensure any difficulties do not escalate.

Evaluating existing remedies

There is already a considerable amount of housing law and non statutory procedures in Northern Ireland enabling landlords to deal with anti social behaviour. We believe that it would make sense to evaluate the effectiveness of these tools before introducing further measures, including a new form of ‘demoted’ tenancy. Our main worry about the short secure tenancy is that it will allow landlords to apply for a possession order during this period, potentially enabling fast track eviction “…with a minimum of litigation”.

Supporting vulnerable tenants can prevent homelessness

HRS is very supportive of the requirement for landlords to provide appropriate support during the short secure tenancy period.  This requirement currently does not exist. We believe it has the potential to provide vulnerable families and individuals the opportunity to sustain the tenancy. Nonetheless, we will be asking for safeguards outlining what will be expected from landlords when assessing, determining and providing the required support. This will be a key factor in the prevention of homelessness.

Further reading on Anti Social behaviour

Find out more about existing remedies and approaches to help deal with Anti Social behaviour in our Professional Resource