Residents awarded for tackling anti-social behaviour

A number of Stevenage residents were honoured in a ceremony hosted by Stevenage Borough Council on Tuesday 17 January for their contribution towards tackling anti-social behaviour.

Miss Sandford was presented with a Good Neighbour Award for being the voice of many residents in her street, helping Stevenage Homes’ anti-social behaviour team deal with a nuisance tenant. Miss Sandford contributed her time for the benefit of the whole neighbourhood and worked closely with case officers. The offending tenant has since had their tenancy terminated.

Cllr Richard Henry, portfolio holder for safer neighbours, commended her efforts:

“The cooperation of our residents when dealing with anti-social behaviour is vital. Miss Sandford’s resilience and dedication is an inspiration to victims of nuisance behaviour and we would like to thank her for the work she does for the community.”

Two residents were also recognised for being part of the Government’s Family Intervention Project which aims to transform the behaviours of whole families. A project worker works with affected families using a combination of support and sanctions to encourage people to improve their behaviour.

Leah Hacker turned her life around, completing courses in parenting, relationships and self confidence at the Hertfordshire Women’s Centre.

Victoria Beaumont helped to change her and her family’s life by completing courses in first aid, DIY, parenting and a ‘grow your own vegetables’ course. Upon finishing the DIY course Victoria went straight home and wallpapered her own dining room, something that Council Leader Sharon Taylor remarked upon:

“I’ve always found wallpapering a struggle so I’m very impressed with Victoria’s determination! Both her and Leah are a huge credit to themselves and their families. It’s fantastic that they saw the potential in getting involved with the intervention project and I hope their success can encourage others.”

Leah and Victoria both picked up Family Intervention Progress Awards

Presenting the Streets award to the residents of Boxberry Close Cllr Ann Webb, portfolio holder for housing added:

“The work that Stevenage Homes and the Council are doing to tackle anti-social behaviour, and support those affected by it, is outstanding. They work hard to engage and empower tenants. When those tenants cooperate with us in such an instrumental way, it’s good for the whole community.”