Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour in Hedge End

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour in Hedge End: Reform UK's Plan for Safer Streets

Hedge End, a growing town in Hampshire, has seen an increase in anti-social behaviour (ASB) that is affecting residents’ quality of life and local safety. From vandalism and assaults to serious incidents involving youth violence, the community is calling for stronger action. Reform UK and our local candidate Craig Palmer are ready to respond.

Recent Incidents Underscore the Problem

In May 2025, masked individuals caused extensive damage across Boorley Park and central Hedge End. Police appealed for CCTV and dashcam footage to assist with their investigation.
A teenager assaulted a Police Community Support Officer near St Luke’s Pharmacy, prompting outrage and concern over youth-related disorder.
In March, a police officer was assaulted by children outside Wildern School, raising questions about respect for law enforcement.
In April, a man was stabbed on Alder Avenue, leading to three arrests including a 15-year-old boy from Hedge End.

Statistics Show the Trend

According to Hampshire Constabulary:

Hedge End North recorded 25 ASB incidents in March 2025.
Hedge End South saw 14 ASB incidents in the same period.

While Hedge End remains one of Hampshire’s safer small towns, the current trend demands urgent attention.

Craig Palmer’s Commitment: Restore Respect, Reclaim Safety

Craig Palmer, Reform UK’s candidate for Hedge End, is putting community safety at the heart of his campaign. If elected, Craig will:

Work directly with Hampshire Police to increase visible patrols in known trouble spots including local parks, shopping areas, and around schools.

Advocate for a permanent police presence in Hedge End through the reinstatement or relocation of a neighbourhood policing base.
Push for more funding for frontline policing, not bloated bureaucracy, to ensure rapid response and deterrence.
Promote youth engagement programmes to prevent offending and reduce repeat incidents.

Craig Palmer says: “Residents are fed up with feeling unsafe in their own community. As your Reform UK candidate, I will fight to bring back visible, local policing and support officers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe.”

Community Action and Reporting

Tackling ASB also means empowering residents. Craig will:

Support better public awareness campaigns encouraging prompt ASB reporting.
Back youth outreach services that offer mentorship and diversion from crime.
Engage directly with neighbourhood groups and parish councils to identify concerns and coordinate responses.

Together, We Can Take Back Control

Anti-social behaviour is not inevitable. With the right leadership and real support for police and communities, we can turn the tide. Reform UK and Craig Palmer are committed to delivering a safer, more respectful Hedge End for all.

If you’ve been affected by ASB, report it to Hampshire Police or visit hampshire-pcc.gov.uk to learn how to take action.

If you would like to comment on this matter please call your reform candidate for this constituency. Craig Palmer

“We are seeing people just walking into our supermarkets and help themselves then walk out, it’s getting worse”!

— Resident of Hedge End