New measures being introduced through the Crime and Policing Act 2026 will strengthen the response to anti-social behaviour, provide greater protection for victims and help agencies take action more quickly when problems arise.
At Cobalt, we work closely with customers, the police and local partners to tackle anti-social behaviour. Here’s a look at some of the key changes and what they could mean for our communities.
Key changes at a glance
From 29 June 2026, the Crime and Policing Act 2026 introduces Respect Orders for adults and Youth Injunctions for those aged 10-17, replacing current Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions (ASBIs) following a pilot programme.
Key changes include:
- Respect Orders apply to adults aged 18+ and Youth Injunctions apply to young people aged 10-17.
- Orders can include restrictions on behaviour, exclusion from a property, and requirements to attend support programmes.
- Housing providers, local authorities and police can apply for both types of order.
- Breaching a Respect Order will be a criminal offence with automatic arrest powers.
- Breaching a Youth Injunction will remain a contempt of court rather than a criminal offence, but can still result in sanctions, including detention orders.
- Respect Orders are expected to last for up to two years, while Youth Injunctions are limited to 12 months.
More protection for victims
Customers who feel their ASB reports haven’t been properly addressed will have additional rights to challenge decisions through a new review process.
What this means for customers: Your concerns can be reviewed by multiple agencies to ensure the right action is being taken.
Stronger powers around exclusion from properties
Courts may be able to exclude individuals from a property where serious anti-social behaviour is taking place, regardless of their housing status.
What this means for customers: Greater protection for victims and communities affected by serious incidents.
Increased penalties
Higher fines and stronger enforcement powers are being introduced for some forms of anti-social behaviour.
What this means for customers: Greater deterrents for those who repeatedly cause problems in their communities.
Potential future powers for housing providers
Changes may eventually allow housing providers to play a greater role in tackling anti-social behaviour, subject to local agreements and national guidance.
What this means for customers: Faster and more joined-up responses to community concerns.
Our approach at Cobalt
At Cobalt, enforcement is only one part of tackling anti-social behaviour. We always look to understand the root causes of problems, support victims and work with customers, communities and partner agencies to find lasting solutions.
