MendBritain

Trouble and Booze go together...

Alcohol related violence is difficult to deal with, a report issued on 22nd October 2009 by The Chief Inspector of Constabulary for England and Wales has indicated that many cases of alcohol related violent crime were being wrongly classed and cites the case of a man suffering a sustained and violent attacked inside a pub which included being kicked in the head a number of times being classed as ABH rather than GBH.

There were also cases being designated as 'no crime' because alcohol was involved. However, Police and Local Authorities do have some weapons at their disposal.

By Laws to stop public drinking

Some Local Authorities have introduced by laws to prevent drinking in public places. This can help Police deal with instances of underage drinking and so lessen the nuisance. The government is looking at ways to tackle binge drinking, with the Scottish Government having already introduced legislation in an attempt to deal with the problems.

Off licences and supermarkets are banned from selling alcohol before 10am and must have a designated area.

Pubs need a license for premises and for those serving; they are also banned from having 'irresponsible' drink promotions. Both The Scottish and National Governments are looking at minimum pricing according to units of alcohol.

Injunctions

These actions are all very well, but what if the problems are from someone who has been drinking in their own home?

Many people suffer at the hands of neighbours who through alcohol abuse confuse night with day, raising issues with loud music and general noise throughout the night. There can be drunken arguments and violence shown towards the victim if they try to complain to them.

Well LA's do have the weapons to deal with these scenarios too. The ASBO legislation should be utilised to deal with these situations as well as good behaviour contracts. The big problem here is the lack on uniformity in applying this legislation.

Also, a tenant who has alcohol problems is often treated as having a disability so councils have more difficulty in evicting them. They may provide alcohol counselling to stop the behaviour and if this fails, can then take further action. This is frustrating for the victims and can delay any problems being solved.

If you are suffering from any of these issues, contact your own local authority or police. The more people who report these problems makes the issue greater and makes those in power have to take more notice.