Victims

Anti-social behaviour can destroy the quality of life for those on the receiving end. The effects of victimisation can continue long afterwards. Almost one-quarter of crime victims still report emotional problems six months after the event. The longer the anti-social behaviour continues, the more chance of long-term damage to the sufferer’s well-being.

There is a lack of information on the characteristics of, and impact on, the victims of anti-social behaviour. However, available research indicates that certain groups of people are likely to be worst affected by the anti-social behaviour. 30: These include:

• the poorest individuals and families who are least able to move away or bear the cost of anti-social behaviour;

• those who are already discriminated against, for example ethnic minorities and homosexuals, who may have fewer local support networks or be less willing to ask local organisations or the police for help;

• young people, who can be an easy target for negative peer group pressure, or who are vulnerable because they are outside traditional support structures such as school or work; and

• other vulnerable people, for example older people, women, and disabled people - some of the people most affected by the fear of crime.