Another way that anti-social behaviour is being tackled is by using Dispersal Orders.  A senior police officer can put restrictions in place in certain areas that have been identified as localities where anti-social behaviour is a particularly persistent problem.

If it is suspected that anti-social behaviour has or may happen then police and community support officers have the power to direct groups or individuals to leave the area and not return for up to 24 hours.  After 9.00 p.m., in certain circumstances, police can also return home someone under the age of 16.  Refusal to leave a dispersal area is an offence.

However, it is unlikely you will be affected if you are just passing through a dispersal area on your way home or if the police feel you are unlikely to cause trouble.