Anybody in South Ayrshire who sees, hears, or is a victim of antisocial behaviour can report the matter to the Antisocial Behaviour Team by simply telephoning 0845 850 2825 any time of the day or night. 

The Scottish Government has provided funding for this initiative that is operated by the South Ayrshire Community Safety Partnership. 

Chair of the Partnership, Councillor Douglas Campbell said:  “Stopping antisocial behaviour at the earliest possible stage is a prime aim of the Antisocial Behaviour Team.  Staff investigate every complaint and work with partner agencies to resolve issues to the satisfaction of everyone involved.  However, if the matter cannot be settled amicably, and it is appropriate, staff will take enforcement action if necessary.”

Antisocial behaviour comes in many forms including:

• Noisy neighbours
• Fly tipping
• Vandalism
• Noise nuisance
• Youth disorder

An experienced Antisocial Behaviour Team is in place to provide a free and confidential service for the whole of South Ayrshire.  A number of steps have been taken to tackle antisocial behaviour that is causing other people problems in communities including:

• Community policing areas have been restructured and the number of Police Constables increased.
• Based on research, ‘hot spot’ areas are identified and activities targeted to those areas.
• Community Support Officers provide a visible presence on the street in designated areas.
• The number of youth activities available locally has been increased through consultation with young people.
• Ways of improving community safety have been identified through local consultation.
• Street workers focus on target areas to support young people.

Councillor Hugh Hunter, the Convener of South Ayrshire Council’s Community Safety Committee said:  “This free and confidential service exists to help people in South Ayrshire to deal with antisocial behaviour.  Behaviour of this sort is unacceptable, but by working together the number of instances of antisocial behaviour in South Ayrshire could be drastically reduced.”

Anyone who would like free and confidential advice can contact the Antisocial Behaviour Team on telephone number 0845 850 2825, telephone lines are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.  The Team operate from Russell Street Buildings, Lymonds Wynd, Ayr and further information can also be obtained by logging on to www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/safety.

June 2006