A TEAM of community workers has been given new powers to challenge troublemakers.
A total of 39 people from South Essex Homes, Estuary Housing and the YMCA, have joined a new accreditation scheme in Southend in an effort to tackle antisocial behaviour.
The team, which has been given a certificate and ID card, now has the right to ask troublemakers for their name and address. If they refuse, police can be called for further action.
It is hoped in time, accredited members will be able to hand out fixed penalty notices to people caught breaking the law.
The team had to undergo five days of training before being given their accreditation.
Mike Gatrell, chief executive of South Essex Homes says: "This is a positive move forward for both our staff and residents."
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