New powers strengthen the response to persistent antisocial behaviour
From today (26 October 2026), Leicestershire Police and partner agencies, including local authorities and housing providers, will be able to use Respect Orders, new civil powers aimed at tackling persistent antisocial behaviour.
These Respect Orders give police and partners, including Leicester City Council, Rutland County Council and the seven district and borough councils across Leicestershire, additional powers to tackle persistent antisocial behaviour.
Respect Orders can place restrictions on an adult’s behaviour and may also include positive requirements – such as attendance at drug or alcohol treatment, anger-management sessions or another suitable programme aimed at changing the behaviour and reducing further antisocial behaviour.
Respect Orders will be considered carefully, based on the circumstances of each case, the available evidence and the risks involved. Those subject to an order can be arrested if they are suspected of breaching the conditions. Any breach is then dealt with as a criminal offence.
Superintendent Stephen Bunn, ASB Lead for Leicestershire Police, said:
“We know that antisocial behaviour can have a serious and lasting impact on victims, families and the community.
“Respect Orders give us and our partners another important tool to tackle those who repeatedly cause harm. By working together, we can take robust action while addressing the causes of offending and helping make our neighbourhoods safer.
“These new orders build on the work already underway through our ASB Action Plan, which includes targeted patrols in hotspot areas, early intervention and problem-solving, and better support for repeat and vulnerable victims.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews said:
“ASB is a top priority for the public and I back our officers and our partners to utilise the full arm of the law when dealing with the perpetrators of this distressing behaviour. Respect Orders will add to the suite of tools already in place to protect communities and hold offenders accountable.
“We know that ASB destroys lives, and that this behaviour is often driven by complex problems and vulnerabilities, including drug and alcohol misuse. Measures that fast-track offenders into treatment are welcome and will help break the cycle.
“A small minority can ruin community life for everyone else, and we must not allow such behaviour to prevail.”
Nicola Odom, head of safer communities at Leicester City Council said:
"We welcome these new powers and have been working with Leicestershire Police to ensure we can take full advantage of them when they are launched.
"Our Public Safety Protection Order (PSPO) team is already reducing antisocial behaviour in the city centre using the powers provided by the PSPO.
The Respect Orders will enable us to deal with persistent offenders and to ensure they get the support they need to change their behaviour, which is available but often refused."
Respect Orders are part of the Crime and Policing Act 2026 and are launching across England and Wales. More information can be found here:
