Government urged to look at impact of asbos

A new pressure group is calling for the government to look at
the “negative” impact of antisocial behaviour orders in
the run-up to the general election, writes Maria
Ahmed.

Asbo Concern, made up of criminal justice campaigners and social
care organisations, will launch next month with meetings in
Manchester and London.

Rebecca Palmer, a youth worker and member of Asbo Concern, said:
“The government need to realise that Asbos do not solve the
causes of antisocial behaviour, particularly for young people. We
want to see funding and support for youth services that can help
communities tackle antisocial behaviour constructively.”

Asbo Concern is calling for young people and communities who
have been affected by Asbos to put forward their views.

Almost half of children given antisocial behaviour orders have
breached the orders, leaving them at risk of being put in prison,
according to research by probation union Napo.

Last week, 10-year-old Ryan Wilkinson became Britain’s
youngest person to be issued with an Asbo.

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