Feeling safe where you live is important for every child, young person, and family. Crime and anti-social behaviour can be worrying, but you’re not alone—there’s lots of support available in Newcastle to help you understand what’s happening, know your rights, and take positive steps to stay safe.
What is anti‑social behaviour?
Anti-social behaviour (often called ASB) is anything that causes harassment, alarm, or distress. This can include things like:
- Loud or disruptive behaviour
- Vandalism or damage to property
- Intimidating behaviour
- Underage drinking or gatherings that make others feel unsafe
Sometimes ASB involves young people, but it’s important to remember that many behaviours come from boredom, stress, or a lack of safe spaces to spend time—not from bad intentions. In Newcastle, we believe in early help, understanding, and giving families the tools they need to thrive.
You’re not alone
Every family deserves to feel safe, and every young person deserves the chance to grow up confident and supported. Whatever you’re experiencing—whether you’re a parent looking for guidance or a young person worried about something happening in your community—there are people in Newcastle ready to help.
How parents and carers can support young people
Growing up can be challenging, and young people need safe places to talk openly. Here are a few ways you can help:
Start the conversation
Ask how things are going at home, school, and with friends. Young people are more likely to share worries when they feel listened to without judgement.
Set clear expectations
Children and teenagers feel safer with clear boundaries. Agree on rules around going out, social media, and keeping in touch when they’re away from home.
Stay curious, not critical
If you’re worried about new behaviour—staying out late, a change in friends, or signs of stress—try asking open questions. “How are things feeling at the moment?” can open the door to honest conversations.
Get support early
You don’t need to wait for things to get serious. Local services can offer advice on friendships, safety, behaviour, and family relationships.
Support for young people
If you’re a young person and something doesn’t feel right, you deserve help.
It's okay to reach out
You can talk to a trusted adult, teacher, youth worker, or support service. Even if you’re not sure what’s going on, your concerns matter.
Know your rights
You should never feel pressured, threatened, or unsafe. If someone’s behaviour is making you uncomfortable, it’s important to tell someone.
Find positive spaces
Newcastle has youth groups, sports clubs, creative sessions, and safe, supportive places where you can make friends and learn new skills. Getting involved can build confidence and reduce the pressures that sometimes lead to risk-taking behaviour.
Where to get help in Newcastle
If you’re worried about crime or anti-social behaviour, you can get support from:
- Children & Families Newcastle hubs – friendly drop‑ins offering advice, early help, and local activities
- Youth services – safe spaces for young people to spend time, talk, and get guidance
- Schools and pastoral teams – support with wellbeing, relationships, and safety
- Northumbria Police (non‑emergency: 101) – for concerns about ongoing ASB or to report something you’ve witnessed
- Emergency services (999) – if you or someone else is in danger right now
You can also access anonymous support through national helplines if you’d prefer not to share your name.
