Anti-social Behaviour Neighbour Dispute Team
Following the Anti-social Behaviour etc (Scotland) Act 2004, South Ayrshire Council, in partnership with Police Scotland and other Community Safety partners, set up a specialist team of officers to provide services to tackle antisocial behaviour in South Ayrshire.
The Anti-social Behaviour Neighbour Dispute Team
The Anti-social Behaviour Neighbour Dispute Team aims to stop anti-social behaviour at the earliest stage. We believe voluntary or negotiated solutions usually work best and are committed to tackling anti-social behaviour through a problem solving multi-agency approach. We work closely with Police Scotland, other Council departments, landlords and voluntary agencies to find local solutions to local problems presented by anti-social behaviour.
What is anti-social behaviour?
Anti-social behaviour is any behaviour that causes distress or alarm. Examples include:
- Noisy neighbours
- Fly tipping
- Vandalism
- Noise nuisance
- Youth disorder
Anti-social behaviour is not behaviour that is merely different, or that is the result of a medical or developmental condition. Therefore tolerance and awareness of other's needs is an important part of tackling anti-social behaviour (Safer Scotland - Scottish Executive 2004).
We do recognise that behaviour regarded as acceptable by some can be seen as anti-social and unacceptable to others - expectations of standards of behaviour can vary between communities, groups within communities and individuals.
How can we help?
The Antisocial Behaviour Neighbour Dispute Service is free and confidential . The team investigates each complaint thoroughly and works with partner agencies to resolve complaints.
We focus on preventing antisocial behaviour at its earliest stage, but will take enforcement action where appropriate. A free Mediation Service is also available to encourage informal solutions to disputes. The Antisocial Behaviour Neighbour Dispute Service is available to everyone, including home owners, council tenants, tenants of registered social landlords and private tenants.
Mediation Service
Our free and confidential mediation service helps neighbours who are having disputes to sort out their differences in a friendly manner. Available to everyone in South Ayrshire, our service can be very effective when used early on in the dispute and so we encourage members of the public to come forward and talk to us.
What is mediation?
Mediation gives you the opportunity to:
- Deal with a range of neighbour disputes (eg. noise, boundaries, use of common areas, pets, vehicles, rubbish, etc).
- Discuss your situation in a controlled and safe environment.
- Be listened to and listen to your neighbour.
- Reach a practical agreement which everyone can live with.
Who are the mediators?
Our mediators are specially trained and experienced in resolving a wide range of disputes. They are independent, will not pass judgment and will not take sides.
What happens in the mediation process?
The mediators will visit all parties involved in the dispute. You will be able to explain what your issues are and how you feel about them. The mediators will explain the process and answer any questions you may have. If all parties agree, a face to face meeting in a safe and comfortable venue is arranged.
What are the benefits of mediation?
Through mediation:
- You have the opportunity to resolve the dispute before it gets worse
- You will both benefit if you come to an agreement
- The agreement is yours - mediation just helps you reach it
Remember, you have nothing to lose by agreeing to mediation.
When is mediation suitable?
Mediation is suitable if all parties:
- want to solve the problem
- agree to participate
- the issues are within you and your neighbour's control.
How do you access the mediation service?
For free and confidential advice contact South Ayrshire Mediation Service or complete our on-line form or telephone 0300 123 0900.
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