In the United Kingdom, an Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC)[1] is an early intervention with individuals who are perceived to be engaging in anti-social behaviour. Though they may be used against adults, almost all ABCs concern young people between the ages of 10-18.[2][3] In the case of a breach of contract or the continuation of unacceptable behavior an Anti-social behaviour order may be used.[1]

History

Anti-social behaviour orders were introduced in April 1999 under the terms of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. The legislation was amended by the Police Reform Act 2002.[1] ABCs were first used in Islington in the early 2000s. [4]

Process

An Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC) is an agreement between an individual who has taken part in antisocial behavior and a local agency. The contract is a voluntary document that is agreed to by both parties and signed.[1] ABCs are not legal documents.[3]

Contract

An ABC is individually drawn up for each person.[3] The contract contains a list of anti-social behaviours as terms, as well as consequences should the terms be breached.[5] Anti-social behavior contracts are typically six months in length, although other lengths of time can be used.[1]

Examples of terms:

I will not:

  • damage property
  • verbally abuse passersby
  • write graffiti
  • throw stones or other objects
  • congregate in groups
  • climb on public or private property
  • spit
  • smoke in public
  • set fire to things
  • physically harass people
  • damage the environment
  • smash glass
  • damage cars[1]

Consequences of Breaches

ABCs are executed generally following two warnings. As part of an ABC, signers are asked to recognise that a breach may result in further consequences. ABCs are not legally binding, although an ABC breach is often used as evidence to support an application for an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO), a breach of which is a criminal offence. If the ASBO is breached, offenders may face imprisonment of up to 5 years and/or a fine of up to £2,000.

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "A Guide to Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and Acceptable Behaviour Contracts" (PDF). UK Government Publications. UK Home Office Communication Directorate. Mar 2003. Retrieved 31 March 2022.
  2. ↑ "Acceptable behaviour contracts | Home Office". Archived from the original on 2009-03-10. Retrieved 2009-11-04.
  3. 1 2 3 "Acceptable behaviour agreements (ABA) | Croydon Council". www.croydon.gov.uk. Retrieved 2022-04-01.
  4. ↑ "The ABC of controlling young troublemakers". TheGuardian.com. 29 August 2001.
  5. ↑ "Acceptable Behaviour Contract (ABC)". ASB HELP. Retrieved 2022-04-01.

See also

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