Building safer SNG communities

Our mission goes beyond simply providing affordable homes; it is about fostering safer, thriving communities where our customers can thrive. As a housing association, SNG is driven by social purpose, committed to offering more than just bricks and mortar. 

Our goal is to deliver greater value to our customers and invest in the communities where we operate. To achieve this, we’re soon launching our Community Foundation, dedicated to improving quality of life by investing £100 million across our communities over the next decade. 
 
We're committed to reducing anti-social behaviour, hate crime and domestic abuse to help create environments where people feel secure, valued, and supported. Achieving this goal requires more than just affordable housing or government authorities – it requires a collective effort from all members of society, with long-term strategies at the heart of the solution. 

While measures such as clean neighbourhoods, better street lighting, improved infrastructure, CCTV, and increased police presence have proven beneficial, they are not sufficient on their own. We believe in the power of active community participation, cultural awareness, education, and health initiatives. These not only reduce insecurity but also enhance customer confidence and well-being.

A collaborative approach with our customers

SNG recognises the importance of understanding communities and working in partnership to create safer, thriving areas. Building long-term relationships with local organisations, key stakeholders, and businesses that share our goals is crucial. We also focus on place-based strategies to engage with customers, understand social and economic dynamics, and address local issues while maintaining consistent services across our geography.

Involving our customers in decision-making has led to innovative solutions that are well-received and supported by the community, resulting in more cohesive neighbourhoods. 


Safer community initiatives

These investment initiatives demonstrate our commitment to fostering safer, more connected communities by addressing ASB and creating positive, sustainable change for all customers. Some examples of our community initiatives include:


Men, women and children on the street clearing up litter

Safer Streets Project – The Nightingales Estate

Launched in 2020, the Safer Streets Fund supports situational crime prevention measures in local communities. In 2023, funding from Round 5 was secured for a project on the Nightingales estate, allowing SNG to partner with residents and local agencies to co-design and deliver interventions aimed at reducing crime, improving safety, and fostering community engagement. 

Key initiatives include: 

  • CCTV installation for enhanced security 
  • School Education Programme 
  • Community Clear Up & Engagement Days 
  • Youth outreach with community activities and education programmes focused on positive behaviours, skills, and personal development 

The project has also hosted several community clean-up days, where customers could safely dispose of waste, participate in litter picking, and engage with SNG staff, local services, and support providers.

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Positive Pathways Programme – Basingstoke, Hampshire

Launched in January 2024 by SNG, the Positive Pathways Network unites Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Fire & Rescue Service, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, and local community groups to reduce serious anti-social behaviour (ASB), violence, and crime affecting young people. 

In partnership with the Basingstoke Violence Reduction Unit, the programme takes a joined-up approach—focusing on preventative, proactive, and reactive support. By aligning efforts, best practice and identifying ways to improve, partners aim to create safer communities and brighter futures for young people and families. 

In October 2024, the Positive Pathways Programme also made available grant opportunities of up to £5,000 via a dedicated SNG Fund named – the Positive Pathways Fund. Funding supported local organisations delivering youth activities, family programmes, skills training, and specialist services in priority community areas: 

  • Brighton Hill / Hatch Warren 
  • South Ham / Buckskin 
  • Black Dam 
  • Popley / Oakridge 

A youth panel is also looking to be set up to help steer the programme and ensure young people have a say in decisions. Meanwhile, school-based sessions across five areas are already helping students build resilience, explore identity, and develop positive behaviours. 

The Positive Pathways Programme also includes multi-agency training, shared resources, and innovative practices—all focused on strengthening communities and reducing harm. 

“ASB, knife crime, and serious violence can have a devastating impact. SNG is committed to early, joined-up action that offers meaningful support and real alternatives for young people. We're excited to see this programme evolve and to share our learning with others in the sector.” — Darryl MacAndrew

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Three women standing in front of a skip

Safer Somerford – Christchurch, Dorset

Led by SNG, Safer Somerford is a community-led initiative reducing anti-social behaviour (ASB) through collaboration with local schools, Dorset Police, BCP Council, and community partners. ASB negatively impacts quality of life and erodes community trust—this programme aims to change that. 

Funded by SNG and the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner (Operation Relentless), the project focuses on building pride, safety, and strong local connections. Since launching, it has lowered ASB rates, boosted crime reporting, and helped customers feel safer—especially in an area previously hit hard by these issues. 

The initiative responds directly to local concerns including drug dealing, knife crime, and county lines activity. Schools reported a sharp rise in problems, particularly among young people. By partnering with community organisations, SNG expanded its reach and impact—especially for children and families. 

Key actions included clean-up days, clearing crime hotspots, and engaging residents through outreach to shape lasting change. Awareness campaigns also improved understanding of how to report ASB and crime. 

Vita Nova, a local arts and recovery hub, delivered powerful youth outreach using drama to explore themes like addiction, county lines, and cuckooing. Their work continues to drive conversation and community engagement. 

SNG also provides person-centred support services, such as debt advice, employment support, mental health services, and cost-of-living assistance, in addition to reactive ASB responses.

Explore our Support for you webpage to learn more about the customer-focused services we provide. 

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Aldermoor Park – Southampton

To enhance the outdoor environment and facilities for young people, the Communities Team collaborated with Southampton City Council and local stakeholders to secure funding for improvements at Aldermoor Park. We are pleased to announce a successful £75,000 funding bid from the Veolia Environmental Trust. 

Over the next six months, a new multi-use games and exercise area will be installed, providing an inclusive space for all customers to enjoy. 

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A man fixing a CCTV warning sign, to a red brick wall

Knightstone Grange Estate – Hythe, Southampton

Built in 1982, Knightstone Grange comprises 60 social homes (one- and two-bedroom flats) across ten blocks, housing over 100 customers. The estate’s demographic includes one-third of children and young people under 18, with 27% of them being primary school age. The rest are adults aged 19 to 55 (50%) and seniors aged 60 to 90 (12%). 

The estate faces several anti-social behaviour (ASB) issues, including littering, fly-tipping, drug activity, and incidents of harassment, all of which affect the community’s sense of safety and wellbeing. 

To address these concerns, our Community Investment and Partnerships Team worked with partners—including youth organisations, local schools, the council, ASB officers, and the SNG locality team—to secure funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner. This funding supported a range of targeted interventions, including: 

  • Community litter pick and clean-up event, with equipment and support for residents to clear rubbish and improve the environment 
  • CCTV installation to enhance security and reassure residents 
  • Improved lighting in poorly lit areas to increase safety at night 
  • Outdoor notice board displaying local service information and SNG activities 
  • Two community picnics to promote cohesion, supported by local charities, Itchen College, and SNG staff 
  • Family support from Families Matter, a local charity 
  • Detached youth work delivered by The Handy Trust, engaging young people in positive activities 

These initiatives form part of a broader strategy to build resilience, improve wellbeing, and create a safer, more connected community at Knightstone Grange. 

Additionally, SNG offers proactive, person-centered support services, including debt advice, money management, employment and skills support, digital inclusion, mental health resources, and assistance with domestic abuse and rising living costs. Our core ASB service provides reactive support, but most issues are best addressed through a holistic, collaborative approach, working with public and voluntary sector partners to build healthy, cohesive communities.