A SCHEME targeting troublesome youngsters has been successfully rolled out across Waveney.The Youth Nuisance Register identifies troublesome young people at an early stage - and gives them the opportunity to improve their behaviour before further action is taken.

A SCHEME targeting troublesome youngsters has been successfully rolled out across Waveney.

The Youth Nuisance Register identifies troublesome young people at an early stage - and gives them the opportunity to improve their behaviour before further action is taken.

It applies to young people aged up to 17 who come to the attention of the police following incidents of anti-social or nuisance behaviour.

Linking into the multi-agency efforts of the Waveney Community Safety Partnership panel, this register is operated in three stages.

'Firstly, if police get called to an incident involving anti-social or nuisance behaviour, a letter is sent from the police to the parents/guardian of the person responsible to make them aware of his/her behaviour,' a spokesman said. 'The name of the person is then placed on the Youth Nuisance Register.'

This then means that the youngster will remain on the register - and if the individual comes to the attention of officers or Waveney District Council's anti social behaviour officer again within a six-month period for similar behaviour, a second letter combined with a home visit or invite to their local station to sign an acceptable behaviour contract (ABC) will be made.

'This is a non-legally binding contact, but if breached could support an application to the magistrates court for an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO),' the spokesman said.

'On a third occasion, within six months of the first instance, the individual will be subject of a multi-agency panel ASBNG (Anti-Social Behaviour Network Group) to discuss appropriate interventions to deter any repeat of the behaviour.'

The ASBNG is chaired by the district council's anti social behaviour officer, Rachel Tucker. Relevant agencies such as police, youth offending service, education welfare, social care services and housing providers all attend the meetings.

Ms Tucker has a varied role within the district, working closely with the environmental health department, housing and community cohesion teams.

Predominately based at Lowestoft police station, Rachel works with a dedicated Police Liaison Officer. PC Steve Brunsdon carries out all necessary research on anti social behaviour related incidents as well as assisting Rachel with educational programmes for young people.