Government Promises Action Following Louise Haigh MP’s Campaign on Antisocial Tenants

Louise Haigh, MP for Sheffield Heeley, has long raised concerns about the devastating impact of antisocial behaviour and nuisance neighbours on local communities.

For years, residents have come to her with deeply troubling stories of being left to suffer from crime, intimidation, and persistent nuisance in their own neighbourhoods, often feeling powerless to act.

In one case, a constituent endured years of threats and antisocial behaviour from a neighbour. Despite repeated reports to her housing association, she was told there was insufficient evidence to act. She has since secured a new tenancy, but Ms Haigh warned that this case is far from unique.

Earlier this year, she wrote directly to the Home Secretary, setting out harrowing cases from her constituency where residents had been left feeling unsafe in their own homes. In her letter, she explained that while eviction powers already exist, they are rarely used and often it is the victim that has to move.

She urged the Home Secretary to use the Crime and Policing Bill as a tool for change, and to issue guidance to councils and landlords making clear that persistent antisocial behaviour should result in eviction.

Following her intervention, Ms Haigh has now received confirmation from the Minister that the Government will take action. Government guidance will now make clear that local agencies are able to pursue eviction for any tenants that have breached their Respect Order

They also clarified that a breach of the Respect Order will be a criminal offence, allowing the police to immediately arrest anyone suspected of a breach. Courts will have a wide range of sentencing options, including community orders, unlimited fines and, for the most severe cases, imprisonment.

Louise Haigh MP for Sheffield Heeley, said:

For too long antisocial behaviour has plagued our communities with residents feeling trapped and terrified in their own homes. If they do feel able to make a complaint, too often they are the ones who eventually have to move rather than the ones terrorising their neighbourhood.

“I’m pleased that the Government has listened to the concerns I’ve raised on behalf of people across Sheffield Heeley, and that they have now committed to taking action.

“This is a positive step, but words alone are not enough. I will continue to advocate for local people until these promises are delivered in practice and families see real change on the ground.”