Norfolk residents who have suffered persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB) have the right to request a formal case review — but councillors heard that many people remain unaware the process exists.

The Norfolk Community Safety Partnership Scrutiny Sub Panel reviewed how the ASB Case Review scheme is operating across the county at its meeting on 29 July 2026. Officials confirmed that applications have increased significantly, which they attributed to growing public awareness, better promotion by partner organisations, and greater confidence that cases would be considered independently.

Under the scheme — introduced by the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 — any resident who has reported three or more separate ASB incidents to a responsible agency within a six-month period can apply for a multi-agency review. Applications can be made online, by phone, in person at a local council or police station, or by post.

Once an application is received, a multi-agency Operational Partnership Team has five days to process it. A named single point of contact is then assigned and must get in touch with the applicant within seven working days.

Cllr Jade Martin raised concerns that some types of ASB — such as excessive vehicle noise and graffiti — are significantly under-reported, despite having a real impact on communities. James Wilson, Head of Environment and Sustainability at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, outlined work underway across Norfolk to tackle vehicle-related ASB, including a coordinated countywide approach to Public Space Protection Orders.

Panel members also discussed the role of SNAP (Safe Neighbourhood Action Panel) meetings in allowing residents to raise local concerns, and asked whether these could be promoted more widely and better linked to other reporting routes.

Officers confirmed that the Norfolk Community Safety Partnership would explore connecting its dedicated ASB webpages more directly to SNAP meeting information to make it easier for residents to find help.

The panel also heard that the partnership has recently added heritage crime to its rural crime priorities. A Norfolk Heritage Watch group has been established and is developing a strategic plan, with a full report due to come before the panel at a future meeting.