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unacceptable behaviour. The consultation arrangements are important but should be
organised so that they do not cause delays in dealing with cases.
Agencies and communities join to tackle anti-social behaviour in Slade Green
Issue
Slade Green in Bexley was once described as 'a cluster of low-rise estates centred on a
precinct of shops and Slade Green railway station, where vandalism, burglary and drugs
blight the lives of residents’. Slade Green has experienced high levels of crime and social
deprivation and features among the top 1.6% of the most deprived wards in England. Bexley
Police identified Slade Green as a hot spot for residential and non-residential burglary, auto
crime, disorder, domestic violence and race crime. Residents, local housing providers and the
leader of the Slade Green Community Safety Forum were alarmed at the escalation of anti-
social behaviour in the area. Residents regularly experienced threats and actual violence,
making them afraid of giving evidence to the police.
Approach
A meeting between resklents and the local partnership team produced an outline action plan.
Community meetings, local press coverage and ‘Have A Say’ days led to key witnesses being
willing to give evidence.
The partnership team applied for ASBOs against the six men identified as the most prolific
perpetrators. In total, 30 witnesses gave evidence, most in the form of hearsay, with nine
giving evidence in person at the court hearing. The policing team involved in the case
supported witnesses by being at court to provide additional reassurance. Victim Support’s
witness support service also helped. Strong witness evidence and a compelling case prepared
by the police and the council legal department convinced the court to agree to all six
applications.
Outcome
The impact of these ASBOs on crime and fear of crime in the area was significant. For the
period 2003/04, robbery incidents fell by 53%, burglary by 21%) and auto crime by 40%. Of
the original six to receive an ASBO, one person has been prosecuted for breach of the ASBO
condition relating to criminal damage to a car, for which he received a custodial sentence.
A community safety action zone (CSAZ) was established in Slade Green with the aim of
reducing crime and disorder in the area.
A multi-agency operations group was formed
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Simon Cordell’s Skeleton Argument (2) Pdf
Simon Cordell Skeleton Argument (3).pdf
Managing the application process
to find the grass roots issues leading to these problems. The addition of environmental and
security improvements has enhanced the appearance of the area and have made it a safer and
more secure place to live. These improvements have included improved street lighting,
removal of graffiti, removal of fly-tipping, removal of abandoned and unlicensed cars and
improvements to play areas.
A survey was carried out before the start of the CSAZ which found that 22% of residents in
Slade Green who responded felt safe at night in their area. After the CSAZ had been set up,
93% of residents surveyed in Slade Green felt safe at night in their area.
Contact
Charlotte Shrimpton Telephone: 020 8284 5503
Taking ownership
It is vital that a specified individual within the lead agency takes on a lead role with
responsibility for the ownership, director, and management of the case. 1'his will help ensure

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