Working as a Housing Partner, no two days are ever the same especially when you’re dealing with antisocial behaviour (ASB). My journey into housing started many years ago working with rough sleepers, many of whom were struggling with drug addiction. From there I moved into roles supporting survivors of domestic abuse and individuals being discharged from forensic mental health wards. These early experiences helped shape the way I approach housing - with empathy, persistence, and a drive to help people rebuild their lives.
Over the years I have supported a wide range of tenants from general needs households to families facing homelessness. A big part of my role now is focused on ASB, and I have seen first-hand the impact it can have on people’s lives—often quietly and behind closed doors.
One case that’s stayed with me involved a woman experiencing both drug misuse and domestic abuse. The team and I were actively supporting her to flee a dangerous situation, but sadly, the situation escalated and ended with her stabbing her ex-partner. It was a stark reminder of how quickly things can spiral and how crucial early intervention and support are.
ASB presents itself in many forms including persistent noise, drug use, harassment, intimidation, and hate crime. I have dealt with situations involving vulnerable customers being targeted because of their disabilities or sexual orientation, as well as cases where individuals with complex needs are unintentionally causing distress to neighbours. I came to realise that the common thread is the emotional toll ASB takes—not just on the individuals involved, but on the wider community.
A key part of my role is working closely with other agencies: police, social services, mental health teams, domestic abuse services, and local community organisations. Together, we can offer a joined-up approach that protects our customers, prevents escalation, and ensures that people get the right support at the right time.
At Accent, we are committed to making our ASB process clear, supportive, and accessible. During ASB Awareness Week, we will be highlighting our policies and promoting tools like the Noise App to help residents report issues quickly and easily. We are also doing targeted outreach work to more vulnerable customers who may struggle to approach us or might not know how and where to start.
To work in housing, particularly around ASB, you need to have a real passion for people. You need to be able to listen, understand and act without judgment. Some days are difficult, and the challenges are real, but when you help someone feel safe in their home again, it makes every part of the job worthwhile.
Cheryl Gledhill-Kucuk is an Accent Housing Partner in Bradford, West Yorkshire. She has been recognised by her peers and the Accent leadership team for her work around ASB and won the Unsung Hero of the year award at the company’s annual Be Accent awards held earlier this year.
You can find out more and report ASB on our Anti-Social Behaviour page.