Antisocial behaviour is behaviour that causes, or is likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to another person outside the same household. This can include behaviour that harms people directly, damages communities, or makes public spaces feel unsafe.

ASB can happen in public places, around homes, or in shared spaces. It can be a one off serious incident or a pattern of repeated behaviour.

The following are examples of behaviour that may be considered ASB, depending on the impact, frequency and context:

Behaviour that harms or frightens people

• Threatening, intimidating or aggressive behaviour
• Harassment, including repeated unwanted contact or abuse
• Hate incidents or behaviour linked to protected characteristics
• Verbal abuse or threatening language
• Using CCTV or recording equipment to harass or invade someone’s privacy

Behaviour that disrupts neighbourhoods or public spaces

• Persistent or excessive noise (for example loud music, shouting, or parties)
• Rowdy or aggressive behaviour linked to alcohol or substance misuse
• Groups causing repeated disturbance in a way that makes others feel unsafe
• Begging or street activity that is aggressive or intimidating

Environmental anti‑social behaviour

• Fly‑tipping or illegal dumping of waste
• Graffiti or vandalism
• Damage to property, vehicles or communal areas
• Abandoned vehicles

Serious or criminal related behaviour

• Drug dealing or drug related activity
• Dangerous or uncontrolled dogs
• Behaviour linked to criminal activity that is impacting the wider community

We always look at who is affected, how often the behaviour happens, and how serious the impact is, rather than relying on a fixed list.

Some situations can be upsetting or frustrating but are not usually classed as ASB, particularly where they are everyday activities, one off incidents, or part of normal living.

These include:

Everyday living noise and activities

• Children playing or babies crying
• Normal household noise, such as footsteps, doors closing, or daytime DIY
• One off events like birthday parties or celebrations
• Smells from cooking

Lifestyle differences or disagreements

• Differences in lifestyles, routines or cultural practices
• People socialising or gathering peacefully
• Minor neighbour disagreements where there is no harassment or intimidation

Parking and local disputes

• Inconsiderate parking (unless it is persistent, dangerous or deliberately obstructive)
• Boundary disputes between neighbours
• Complaints about lawful use of public highways
• Allegations about businesses running from a property

Isolated or low‑impact issues

• One‑off incidents with no ongoing risk
• Issues that are accidental or quickly resolved
• Reports that are malicious, vexatious or unreasonable
• Children or adults gathering in public places, such as parks, play areas, outside shops or precincts

The Wokingham Borough Safer Communities Partnership works to prevent anti‑social behaviour where we can, and to deal with it quickly when it happens. We focus on early support – such as youth outreach or informal warnings – to stop problems escalating.

When anti‑social behaviour continues, we will take appropriate action to protect others. At the same time, we work to address the underlying causes, for example by helping people access support with alcohol, drugs or other challenges, to reduce the risk of issues happening again.

Keeping Your Home and Community Safe

Home security - small steps can make a big difference. Lock doors and windows when you go out and at night, even for short periods. Use good‑quality locks and keep valuables out of sight. If you’re away, timed lights or motion‑sensor outdoor lighting can help make your home feel lived‑in and deter intruders.

Scams and bogus callers - be cautious with unexpected visitors, calls or messages. Genuine council or utility workers will carry ID, and you can check this with their organisation. If you’re unsure, don’t let anyone in. Never share personal or bank details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly – banks and the police will never ask for PINs or passwords. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.

For advice or to report scams or rogue traders, contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0345 404 0506, or Trading Standards on 01635 519930, or email tsadvice@westberks.gov.uk.

Online safety - protect yourself online by using strong, unique passwords and being careful with links or attachments in unexpected emails or texts. Look for secure websites when shopping or banking online and think carefully about what you share on social media, especially if you’re away from home. Staying alert online helps reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft.

Fire safety at home - make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them regularly. Have a simple escape plan and take extra care with cooking, candles, emollients and smoking materials.

Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue Service offers free Safe and Well visits for people who may need extra support. Firefighters can check for risks, fit smoke alarms if needed, and give personalised advice. Call 0800 587 6679 or visit their website to arrange a visit.

Looking out for neighbours - safe communities are built on kindness and awareness. Keeping an eye out for neighbours – especially those who may need extra support – can help prevent harm. If something feels concerning, consider checking in or letting someone know who can help.

Neighbourhood Watch groups across Wokingham help residents stay informed and support each other. You can find your local scheme at https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/ or email bracknellandwokingham.nhw@gmail.com.

Business Watch

Safe communities support strong local businesses, and businesses play an important role in helping keep Wokingham safe. Through Business Watch, shops and companies are encouraged to share information, look out for one another, and prevent crime.

Businesses can sign up to Thames Valley Alert and select the Business Watch option to receive crime alerts and practical prevention advice, such as warnings about local scams or tips to improve security. The police and council also offer guidance on trading legally and reducing risk, including advice from the Council’s Trading Standards team.

Simple measures – such as good locks, lighting, CCTV and staff training to spot fraud or theft – can make a real difference.

Pubwatch

Pubwatch helps pubs, bars and clubs work together to keep Wokingham’s nightlife safe and welcoming. Members share information and use a joint banning scheme, meaning people who cause serious harm or disruption in one venue can be excluded from others. This collective approach helps reduce violence, protect customers and staff, and create safer town centres.

Businesses interested in joining Pubwatch can contact the Council’s Licensing Team by emailing licensing@wokingham.gov.uk or calling 0118 974 6000.

Stay up to date with local crime updates and safety advice by joining Thames Valley Alert – a free messaging system from Thames Valley Police. Once you sign up, you’ll receive local updates about crime, safety tips, and alerts about incidents in Wokingham. You can choose to get messages by email, text, or phone, and tailor them to your interests (for example, general neighbourhood updates, Business Watch notices, etc.).

• Sign up online: Visit thamesvalleyalert.co.uk and register for free.