The council introduces PSPOs when the issues residents are experiencing or facing cannot be resolved by alternative civil or criminal enforcement. PSPOs aim to reduce levels of crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Ealing, they can include requirements, prohibitions and/or restricted areas.
PSPOs provide the council with the ability to hold individuals accountable for their ASB at the time it takes place. By enforcing the PSPO, the council aim to see a reduction in the anti-social behaviour and crime taking place in the hotspot areas.
The council are required to hold a 6-week consultation period with the community affected by the proposed PSPO. During the consultation period affected, individuals will have the opportunity to share their views on the PSPO and what types of ASB they believe should be prohibited.
Enforcing the Order
PSPOs in the borough are enforced by authorised officers of the council, including:
- authorised council officers
- the Police
- park guard
An authorised officer will have identification to show that they are able to enforce the PSPO.
PSPOs are enforced through dispersals, fixed penalty notices (FPN) and prosecutions.
If a person is seen breaching an order, they may be given a FPN of £100. If this is unpaid, Ealing Council may take legal action against the person. This can result in a level three fine of up to £1,000 on conviction.
Dealing with vulnerable people
The safer communities team do not want vulnerable residents to be disproportionately affected by the PSPOs. This has been echoed by residents during previous public consultations.
When dealing with vulnerable people, authorised officers are expected to take a support-first approach. This means that, whilst they may take the name and details of a vulnerable resident, these details will be used to make a referral to appropriate support services. If the vulnerable person is a frequent offender, after several warnings the officers may then issue an FPN.
Disagree with the orders?
Anyone who is an interested person can appeal a PSPO. An interested person is someone who lives, works in, or regularly visits the area where the order will be affected. That means only people who are directly affected by the PSPO can challenge it.
The appeal must be made through an application to the High Court within 6 weeks of the order being made.
If you disagree with some parts of the PSPO let us know your concerns by emailing safercommunities@ealing.gov.uk