TACKLING anti-social behaviour has been discussed by more than 130 crime reduction workers from across the region.The conference in Hatfield, hosted by the East of England's Crime Reduction Team, gave an opportunity for those involved in crime reduction to share practical experience and best practice, and meet informally.

By Tracey Sparling

TACKLING anti-social behaviour has been discussed by more than 130 crime reduction workers from across the region.

The conference in Hatfield, hosted by the East of England's Crime Reduction Team, gave an opportunity for those involved in crime reduction to share practical experience and best practice, and meet informally.

The audience included community safety officers and Crime Reduction Partnership representatives, the police, anti-social behaviour co-ordinators, street wardens and representatives from the youth service, housing and council legal departments.

Acting regional crime reduction director Jan Roberts said: "Anti-social behaviour ruins lives and communities.

"It can seriously damage the quality of life of vulnerable people through the fear of crime and the long-term effects of victimisation. The costs to individuals, families, schools, local authorities, social landlords and businesses can be crippling.

"The conference provides an opportunity for crime reduction practitioners across the region to take the next steps towards eradicating a problem that affects so many, and yet is often caused by the action of a small minority."