Anti-social behaviour order facts for kids
An ASBO, which stands for Antisocial Behaviour Order, is a special legal rule used in the United Kingdom. It is given to people who often behave in ways that cause problems for others. The main goal of an ASBO is to stop someone from being "anti-social." This means preventing them from causing worry or trouble to people who don't live with them, as defined by the Crime & Disorder Act of 1998.
Contents
What is "Anti-social Behaviour"?
Anti-social behaviour means doing things that bother or harm other people in the community. It's about actions that make public places less safe or enjoyable for everyone.
Some common types of anti-social behaviour include:
- Causing physical harm to others
- Damaging property, like vandalism or graffiti
- Using hurtful or disrespectful language
- Leaving litter around
- Hanging around in a place without a clear reason, especially if it makes others uncomfortable
- Causing problems due to alcohol
- Taking things without permission
- Making too much noise
- Setting fires without permission
- Spitting in public places
How ASBOs Work
An ASBO tells a person what they are not allowed to do, and sometimes where or when they cannot do it. For example, an ASBO might stop a person from meeting certain friends in a park after 8 o'clock if that group has caused trouble there before. It's a way to set clear boundaries for behaviour.
Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs)
There is also something called an ABC, which means an Acceptable Behaviour Contract. These are often used to help people agree to behave better. An ABC is flexible and can be used for both serious problems and smaller issues. It's like a promise to try and be a good neighbour.
Surprising ASBO Rules
Sometimes, the rules in an ASBO can seem a bit unusual. They are always designed to stop specific problems caused by a person's past actions. For example, an ASBO might have stopped someone from:
- Wearing a hat anywhere in England and Wales
- Sitting on the top deck of a bus
- Wearing one golf glove
- Being sarcastic
- Attending meetings that discuss anti-social behaviour
Images for kids
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A police notice about an ASBO on a street in Richmond
