A NEW taskforce is being launched to tackle anti-social behaviour across the county.

The taskforce is being launched during the first ever National Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week (July 19-25) by Hampshire's Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones.

It is expected to bring together organisations that need to work together to tackle anti-social behaviour which has been outlined as a top concern of residents.

Data shows that between April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 there were a total of 37,325 incidents recorded as ASB, with Alcohol, Drugs and Youth Related Incidents being the most common in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

But now, Commissioner Jones says: "“Residents and businesses across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have told me that they are concerned about the growing rise of anti-social behaviour.

"Vandalism, street drinking, irresponsible driving and other unacceptable behaviours leave people feeling alarmed, harassed or distressed, and ultimately unsafe in their local community.

"As Police and Crime Commissioner, I take this very seriously and working with partners to tackle ASB will be a priority.”

The new taskforce will be a collaboration with the Police and Crime Commissioner and Hampshire Constabulary, with Hampshire Constabulary District Commanders taking a lead role.

Local stakeholders and partners will be invited to attend to discuss and tackle specific problems and issues that require action beyond policing alone.

Chief Inspector Humphries, Hampshire Constabulary, said: “ASB is often downplayed and seen as low level or unimportant but the reality is ASB can cause misery to people’s lives and affect whole communities.

"This first national ASB awareness week provides an opportunity to highlight local ASB themes, ways of reporting and action being taken like the creation of the new taskforce”.

The Commissioner and Chief Inspector Humphries will be answering questions about anti-social behaviour and the new taskforce live on the Hampshire Constabulary facebook page on Wednesday July 21 at 6.30pm.