Foreword
The vast majority of Scotland's communities are good places to live - 93% of adults in Scotland say so. However, too many are blighted by fear of crime and disorder, lack of opportunity, a feeling of being cut off from services and facilities, and the pervasive effects of drink, drugs, and deprivation.
Antisocial behaviour is a very visible symptom of these deep-rooted problems and remains a significant concern for communities across the country. Its effect is corrosive, undermining communities, damaging the lives of victims, both young and old, and preventing perpetrators from realising their true potential.
As elected members, we are all too aware of the misery such behaviour can cause. We represent communities on opposite sides of the country, in different democratic institutions and through different political parties, yet the problems people bring to us, the challenges we face, the solutions we seek and the outcomes we desire are the same. We stand united in our belief that prevention, through meaningful community engagement, gives us the best chance of success.
This Framework for preventing antisocial behaviour in Scotland is the product of an inclusive, consensual and evidence-led review of national policy. It is owned - and will be delivered - by all of the key partners involved in tackling antisocial behaviour in Scotland.
We believe that the overriding focus on Antisocial Behaviour Orders has not been helpful: they are a useful tool, but they are only one of the tools in the box. Enforcement measures alone will not solve the deep-seated problems that fuel disorder in our communities.
So, while the Scottish Government will not seek to repeal the measures in the 2004 Act, this Framework marks a significant shift in policy away from simplistic quick-fixes towards smarter solutions. We will focus on protecting communities by preventing antisocial behaviour occurring in the first place.
We realise that problems cannot be turned around overnight, but by promoting positive outcomes and tackling the causes of antisocial behaviour we will improve the quality of life of everyone in our communities for the long term and, as a result, help Scotland to flourish.
Fergus Ewing MSP
Minister for Community Safety
Councillor Harry McGuigan
COSLA Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing and Safety