The power of community – how one Southampton estate is winning the battle against anti-social behaviour

Collaborative efforts between residents, the police, and partner agencies are having a profound impact in reducing anti-social behaviour (ASB) on the Millbrook estate in Southampton over Halloween.

Last night (Thursday 31 October 2024), the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) teamed up once again with Millbrook Matters, the police, churches, Southampton City Council, and a number of local community groups and volunteers to host a range of activities for families and young people across four venues on the estate.

The event was launched in 2022 in response to growing concerns over anti-social behaviour during the evening. Since its introduction, Millbrook has seen a significant reduction in ASB incidents during Halloween.

In 2021, there were a total of 48 recorded incidents including 12 for ASB. With the introduction of the event the following year, 2022 saw a dramatic reduction with a total of 21 recorded incidents and only one for ASB. Last year, the event secured an even more positive outcome with just three recorded incidents including one ASB incident.

This year, Colne Avenue Baptist Church staged a light disco, there were arts and crafts for younger children at All Saints Church, teenagers enjoyed food, music and football with the Saints Foundation and Youth Options at the MP3 centre, while Testlands hosted a woodland scary maze.

The success of the event highlights the ongoing commitment to creating a safe and engaged community for all. It has also now become a model for other estates facing similar challenges.

The VRU works in partnership to coordinate a collaborative response to tackle the root causes of violence. Director Jim Pegler, said: “It’s great to see the continued success of the annual community Halloween event in Millbrook. It has become the cornerstone for reducing anti-social behaviour in the area, providing a safe and inclusive environment for all ages to celebrate.

“By bringing together local partners, community leaders, and residents, we’re not only building stronger relationships but also fostering a positive, vibrant community spirit. We’re incredibly proud to support this initiative year after year and we’re inspired by the collective impact it’s had on Millbrook. Whether we are working with communities to reduce ASB or serious violence, the challenge is to come up with a genuine and credible alternative for young people.”

Tracy Emm and Kathi Iason are the co-founders of Millbrook Matters: “It’s been fantastic to see the families out and about. The community have done themselves proud. This event has really gone from strength to strength. We are both really blown away by it all.”

The Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Terry Norton, said: “This is such a positive message about what can be achieved when communities come together and take action. Through fun activities and positive reinforcement, Millbrook is engaging with its residents and its families. This is the power of community spirit.

“It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the events and activities on offer. There is a real sense of pride here. We know that working in partnership ensures safer communities and that’s definitely the message here in Millbrook.”

Southampton Chief Inspector Chris Douglas said: “We really want everyone to enjoy themselves safely over the Halloween period, which is why we increase our patrols at this time of year. We have been on hand to deal with any incidents promptly ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

“Once again this year there have been lots of events and activities across the city for young people to get involved in. This is testament to the hard work of our valued partner agencies.”

Luke Newman is the co-founder of Testlands: “We’re thrilled to see the community coming together for such a vibrant and inclusive event. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with families and young people, and we’re proud to play a role in creating a safe and exciting environment for everyone to enjoy. Our hope is that this event becomes a cherished annual tradition, one that grows each year and brings even more joy to the community.”

Councillor Christie Lambert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Safer City at Southampton City Council, said: “It’s wonderful that residents and partners are working together to build stronger, happier communities. By hosting these sessions, our younger residents can enjoy a night of fun with their families, friends and neighbours. This helps people to get to know each other and breaks down barriers.”