Applications for a first-of-its-kind apprenticeship to train people as ASB (antisocial behaviour) & Community Safety Officers have been ‘overwhelming’ according to organisation which has designed the new programme.

The scheme, which will welcome its first cohort of apprentices in April, has been launched by Resolve, which aims to tackle ASB and make communities safer through its expert training, support and guidance.

Resolve’s new initiative will see apprentices spend two years learning in the classroom and on the job to qualify as ASB & Community Safety Officers. The qualification will be a great first step into a fulfilling and challenging career tackling ASB.

The new role is part of a wider focus on professionalising the antisocial behaviour sector to ensure those who are working to end ASB understand the complexities and nuances of supporting those who are victims of crime, the underlying causes and preventative measures.

Suited to those who have no prior experience or wishing to upskill or change career paths from within the housing sector, apprentices will learn the theories and practical skills needed to effectively respond to reports of ASB in communities.

Training will include investigation techniques, tools to resolve issues, effective partnership working, legal aspects and more.

Research released by Resolve last year revealed that more than one fifth of people said that ASB incidents made them feel unsafe where they live. Official figures show ASB has risen during the pandemic making it a critical issue for landlords and government.

Rebecca Bryant OBE, chief executive of Resolve said; “A professional and collaborative approach is needed if we are to tackle ASB and make communities safer for tenants. This apprenticeship programme is a big step in the right direction.

“ASB is a complex area of work and requires real expertise, skills and understanding due to its intersection with areas such as mental health, safeguarding, domestic abuse and substance misuse.”