New phone line launched to report anti-social behaviour in Oldham

First Choice Homes Oldham has launched a new phone line for residents to report anti-social behaviour, as the housing association steps up its efforts to tackle neighbourhood problems. The Respect Line, which went live last month, allows tenants to call 0161 393 7117 directly to report issues like noise nuisance, drug dealing, and threatening behaviour.

Louise Dean, who joined FCHO as community safety manager in January, is leading a team of five anti-social behaviour officers and working closely with Oldham Council and Greater Manchester Police. The new service comes as FCHO has already issued more than 25 notices to seek possession of homes following alleged criminality uncovered during GMP's Operation Vulcan crackdown in Derker.

Dean said the housing association prefers to resolve most complaints informally, with over 90% of cases handled without legal action. However, she warned that FCHO has 'considerable levers' available if problems persist, including injunctions, notices to seek possession, and even closure orders in partnership with police.

The housing association has also invested in new noise monitoring equipment and is working with the council to tackle persistent noise nuisance. Dean emphasised that while only a small minority of tenants commit anti-social behaviour, the impact on victims can be 'very distressing' and FCHO is committed to taking effective enforcement action when needed.