How agencies are dealing with crime in County Durham and Darlington

AGENCIES across County Durham and Darlington have put plans in place to tackle anti-social behaviour in the region – which includes a joint-pledge from policing groups and increased funding to enable residents to feel safe in their own home.

Over the last six months, an increase in anti-social behaviour has been seen in certain patches of the county – making homeowners worried to live in their own properties and residents not wanting to venture out into their towns and villages.

This warning on anti-social behaviour was guided by a survey carried out by Durham’s police and crime commissioner, Joy Allen, which collected the thoughts of 1,200 County Durham residents in 2021.

As a result of the low-level crime, Ms Allen and her office has signed a joint pledge with housing associations to continue working together to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Among the plan's priorities are improvements to how residents can report crime, better crime prevention advice in communities and enhanced measures to tackle anti-social behaviour, including support for victims.