16 teenagers have been referred to a project aimed at steering them away from ASB

The group suspected to be causing ASB on the Front Street are now engaged in Future Pathways, a local project ran in Darlington: https://www.futurepathways.uk/about-us

 

The project enables young people to overcome barriers, re-engage and develop skills required to successfully integrate into the community through sport, activities, and learning.

 

As well as the referrals, increased patrols by officers, PCSOs, street wardens and special constables have helped to see a visible reduction in calls to the area, but we know the problem hasn't gone away.

 

That's why partnership work with Durham County Council and Karbon Homes is key and together they remain focused on ensuring Chester le Street is a safe place for residents and businesses.

 

The team have also launched Operation Drive which held its first intensification day last month and resulted in three prolific offenders being arrested.

 

Whilst the work continues in the background, the neighbourhood team are encouraging residents to come forward and report anti-social behaviour incidents directly to them so that they can act.

 

Inspector Simon Hogg, from Chester-le-Street neighbourhood team said: “We have seen a noticeable difference in the town since most of the youths were identified and put on the right path, but we still have more work to do with our partners.

 

“We’re constantly identifying key issues and hotspot locations by holding meetings with agencies and looking at new ways to keep everyone safe.

“We’re putting measures in place and continuing our crackdown on anti-social behaviour.