VICTIMS of anti social-behaviour are being thrown a lifeline on Teesside, in what could be the first move of its kind in the UK.

Residents are to be given practical help and advice by others who have been targeted by tearaways in the past.

The self-help Haven Project being launched in Middlesbrough has the active backing of both Cleveland Police and Middlesbrough Council.

It is being launched at a public meeting being organised along the lines of an interactive quiz show, in Middlesbrough, on Monday.

'Who are you going to call?' will test residents' awareness and understanding of who they should ask for help.

The event will also emphasise the way that the community can help reduce crime by shopping the culprits.

Jane Hill, Middlesbrough Council's Enforcement Team Manager said: "It is hoped that residents who are suffering from anti social behaviour will benefit from this event.

"It is imperative that communities take a stand against this type of behaviour and the event will focus around the different enforcement agencies that are available. In addition, the Haven Project has been introduced to offer support and guidance throughout this process."

The audience will be equipped with hand held buttons to press to give their replies during the question and answer session.

Sue Borrow from the Middlesbrough Partnership Cluster Groups, co-organisers of the event.

She said: "Community members from the Middlesbrough Partnership Cluster Groups have previously worked with various agencies to identify areas of anti-social behaviour. This event is the second stage of that work and will make community members aware of 'what to report' and 'who to report it to.' This demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the various agencies involved to listen to the community and involve them in their work."

Lesley Dale, Performance and Planning Officer for the Safer Middlesbrough Partnership said: "The Safer Middlesbrough Partnership is committed to making a difference by tackling crime, such as anti social behaviour and criminal damage. However to ensure that we can do our work effectively communities must realise that they have a responsibility to provide information about individuals or families that are causing the problems.

"We can then use this information to co-ordinate partner agencies to take appropriate action."

The event is being held at the Middlesbrough Teaching and Learning Centre, Tranmere Avenue, Middlesbrough, between 5.30pm and 9pm.