Antisocial behaviour plans could criminalise children for playing

Could children playing outside be deemed a criminal activity? If that idea feels too Orwellian to be true, think again. Earlier this year, the government put forward plans designed to curb antisocial behaviour and tackle bullying – worthy aims that will strike a chord with many voters. However, the draft proposals in the Antisocial Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill were published with little consultation with the children's sector, unions or indeed children themselves. This hastiness is reflected in the detail of the proposals. The measures would enable the authorities to place crime prevention injunctions (replacing the existing Asbo) on children and young people who bully others, and on those who are guilty of "conduct capable of causing nuisance and annoyance". These plans could penalise children for simply playing out in their local neighbourhood and give powers to tackle bullying that could draw young people unnecessarily into the youth justice system.