What can you do?

Where it is possible you should try to solve the problem yourself. Often the best way to resolve a neighbour problem is by the neighbours involved talking to each other and trying to see each other's point of view.

• Before approaching your neighbour think about what you are going to say.
• Have a clear and simple message in mind.
• Before you talk to your neighbour, try talking to another person. This can help to make the problem clearer in your mind.
• When you speak to your neighbour don't interrupt them when they are talking.
• Be friendly, remember to stay calm and don't get involved in an argument.
• If your neighbour is unreasonable – walk away.
• Seek advice at an early stage from your managing agent or one of the other agencies if things don't improve.

You could also start to collect evidence to give to the police, or to your managing agent. You could also keep a diary of events, this could be recorded using a diary sheet. You may also want to take photographs, for example, of dumped rubbish or car repairs being carried out, however be careful to not annoy your neighbours and respect their privacy. You can also approach other neighbours to see if they are being affected and ask them to also keep diaries to provide supporting evidence.

You may prefer to contact your managing agent who may take action or organise a coordinated approach by all those concerned.

The Citizens Advice Bureau, or the Police may also be able to give advice depending on the problem.

If you witness a crime you can contact the police on 999.

 Mediation

Mediation involves resolving a problem with a neighbour by talking it through with a trained mediator. Mediation meetings are conducted with an agreed set of rules that allow both sides a chance to have their say without interruption. The rules do not allow any insults, aggressive behaviour or threats. By the end of the mediation you should be in a position to make an agreement about how to deal with problem in the future. Everything that is said during a mediation session, and any agreements made, are kept strictly confidential.