Introduction of Respect Orders, Youth and Housing Injunctions

New Respect Orders have come into force across England and Wales, replacing the existing anti-social behaviour injunction regime for adults and introducing tougher enforcement powers for persistent offenders. The changes form part of wider reforms under the Crime and Policing Act 2026 and are accompanied by updates to related youth and housing injunctions.

Respect Orders can be used against adults aged 18 and over who have engaged in, or threatened to engage in, anti-social behaviour. Courts can impose a range of prohibitions and requirements aimed at preventing further misconduct, including restrictions on entering particular areas, consuming alcohol in public places, or engaging in specified behaviours. They can also require individuals to participate in interventions such as drug or alcohol treatment programmes or anger management courses.

For authorities and community safety partners, the most significant change is the strengthened enforcement framework. Unlike previous adult anti-social behaviour injunctions, a breach of a Respect Order is now a criminal offence. Police have powers to arrest those suspected of breaching an order, with offenders potentially facing criminal penalties, including fines, community sanctions and imprisonment.

The new orders are intended to provide a stronger response to behaviour that causes harassment, alarm or distress within local communities. Authorities able to apply for Respect Orders include local authorities, police forces, housing providers and other specified bodies.

Alongside the introduction of Respect Orders, the previous injunction framework established under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 has been reorganised. Youth injunctions will continue to deal with anti-social behaviour involving individuals under 18, while housing injunctions will be used for housing-related nuisance and anti-social behaviour cases involving adults.

The Legal Aid Agency has confirmed that civil legal aid will continue to be available for Respect Orders, youth injunctions and housing injunctions, with criminal legal aid also available for breach proceedings. Updated guidance has been issued reflecting the new regime.