I WAS concerned to read the letter from Mr David Cooper (We must help stop yob fear – Postbag October 7). Tackling anti-social behaviour and racism within Barking and Dagenham is a top priority for both the council and local police. During the past few ye

I WAS concerned to read the letter from Mr David Cooper (We must help stop yob fear - Postbag October 7).

Tackling anti-social behaviour and racism within Barking and Dagenham is a top priority for both the council and local police.

During the past few years, a partnership between the council, police and community groups of all faiths has worked hard to tackle racist behaviour, identify those responsible and prosecute them.

We have a free 24-hour hate crime helpline, the first London borough to introduce this type of service. The number is 0800 138 1625.

The Sanctuary Project provides options for victims who want to remain in their homes but require additional support and security to do this.

We also have the Hate Incidents Panel, where professionals from across the partnership meet regularly and work through complicated cases.

The Primary Care Trust has developed booklets and website information around the links between hate incidents and how this can affect health.

The council has a dedicated anti-social behaviour team (ASBT) which has close links with the police and other agencies. There is also a mediation service.

Measures to control street drinking in areas where this is a problem have been introduced and the ASBT team has taken a number of people to court for legal action, including ASBOs and injunctions.

The ASBT can be contacted by telephoning 020 8215 3010.

I would like to suggest that those people referred to in the letter should contact me directly so that we can offer support, advice and assistance.

Nobody living or working in this borough should be the victim of racist and violent behaviour.

Barking and Dagenham has a good record of tackling these issues, and with the support of the local community, we can do something about it.

Councillor Jeanne Alexander

Cabinet member for safer neighbourhoods and communities