FAMILY behaviour contracts are helping Gwent Police in their battle against anti-social behaviour in Ringland.

Between January 8 and January 18, Alway officers issued 15 family behaviour contracts to Ringland families.

These contracts place the onus on parents to ensure that they take some responsibility for their child's behaviour while their child is outside of the family home.

The contracts have been issued in an effort to tackle growing issues of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the area, particularly around Ringland Centre.

Incidents reported included young people, aged between 13 and 21, throwing stones, being abusive, and intimidating other residents.

The crime and disorder reduction officer for Alway, Nic Donovan said that there have been just three calls regarding anti-social behaviour in Ringland in the past week.

She said: “Should the anti-social behaviour continue, the contract will be used as evidence at court for an ASBO.

“Of the youths involved, some are repeat offenders and some have come from outside the area.

“The majority of parents have been accommodating and have taken responsibility. There has been a massive decrease in calls since they were issued.

“In the past week alone, we have had just three calls and this number would have previously been in double figures.

“Hopefully, the figures will remain the same."

She added: “Officers have also been working with partner agencies Newport City Homes and Newport City Council to liaise with families in Ringland.

“If problems continue, the tenancy of residents can be reviewed.”

The move is the latest in a line of measures Gwent Police have taken in Ringland in recent months, following a 48-hour dispersal order in Ringland Centre on the weekend of November 28 to 30 last year.

Gareth Price, tenancy management officer at Newport City Homes, said: “Recently, we have seen a reduction in anti-social behaviour in Ringland Centre due to joint working with partners and agencies.

“We are optimistic that the family behaviour contracts, combined with enhanced CCTV, will help maintain this reduction in criminal activity.

“However, if support and agreements prove unsuccessful, we will work with partners to enforce legal action which may lead to injunctions and/or evictions.”